BRIGHT red bikes will be a regular feature of Uxbridge and Hillingdon life after the launch of the first public cycle-hire scheme.

Santander Cycles Brunel – affectionately-dubbed ‘Brunel Bikes’ – will initially connect six docking stations across Uxbridge town centre, Brunel University and Hillingdon Hospital, with plans being drawn-up to extend the network to West Drayton. 

It offers a convenient new means of getting about town, while encouraging exercise, easing traffic and reducing pollution.

The scheme follows Brunel’s winning effort in the Santander Cycles University Challenge, a national competition which tasked universities with raising funds for their own cycle schemes.

Backed by key partners such as Hillingdon Hospital, Brunel had 33 days to raise operating costs of £48,650 – a target that was eventually smashed by £36,000, thanks to donations from more than 400 supporters, including businesses and a host of current and former students.

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A further £100,000 of capital investment was awarded to the scheme by Santander.

To hire the bikes, riders can either pay £1 for 30 minutes’ use, or pay an annual rate of £60 for unlimited one-hour rides.

Access is via the Santander Cycles app, online or over the phone, with full details displayed at each docking station.

Uxbridge MP Boris Johnson, who was Mayor of London when ‘Boris Bikes’ were introduced in the capital, said: “I think Brunel have been pioneering.It’s also a great thing for Uxbridge and the local community because what they are creating is not just a cycle scheme for the university but for the whole of the town centre.

“I’ve no doubt it’ll expand and this is the start of something really beautiful.”