NEW secure cycle parking facilities have been installed at Northallerton railway station in an effort to encourage more people to travel there by bike.

The new 72 space shelter - 80 per cent more than the previous facility - offers cycle parking in a secure area covered by CCTV.

The new racks are designed to encourage customers of train services to cycle to the station rather than drive, helping to reduce road congestion in the Northallerton area.

The transport integration manager for TransPennine Express, Charlie French, said: “We are delighted to have been able to enhance and expand the cycle parking facility at Northallerton in partnership with North Yorkshire County Council.

"This partnership has delivered infrastructure that enables customers to choose to cycle to the station rather than drive, knowing they can leave their bike parked securely and protected from the weather.”

TransPennine Express are on track to deliver an investment of £500m over the next two years in additional services, more seats and new Nova trains, the first of which will begin serving Northallerton from autumn 2018.