BOOK worms and cyclists will be able to get their fix as libraries install improved cycle parking.

The Durham County Council Love Reading, Love Cycling initiative encourages greener modes of transport, bringing together active travel, the joy of reading and the use of libraries as social hubs, to increase health and well-being.

Belmont Library has already benefitted from the scheme, with new cycle parking installed, as well as the provision of Bike Easy books and special bike seat covers to anyone using the bike stands.

Following this, the council is planning to roll out cycle parking to other libraries and council buildings. Confirmed for cycle parking installation this year are Newton Hall Library, Shildon Library, and Chester-le-Street Library.

This follows a series of improvements made to create a cycle friendly Durham, all part of the Strategic Cycling and Walking Delivery Plan 2019-2020.

The plan aims to make cycling and walking safe, affordable, enjoyable, everyday modes of transport throughout Durham. In turn, this will contribute to a reduction in car traffic and parking issues whilst improving air quality.

The council's head of transport, Adrian White, said, “Cycling to your local library is a great way to spend an afternoon, promoting good health for the body and mind, as well as reducing pollution caused by travel.

“By installing more cycle parking, we hope to encourage people to get out on their bikes and explore and travel through Durham on two wheels.

“Durham is buzzing with cycling this summer, with events such as Velo just around the corner. We will continue to improve our cycle and walk ways to allow people greener, more economical modes of transport, as well as enjoy cycling for fun.”

The new scheme builds on work with other initiatives, such as the Cycle2Work scheme, issuing cycle confidence training, as well as offering bike pooling to encourage staff to use bikes when travelling for business.

The council is also working with independent travel consultancy, ParkThatBike, to install free cycle parking for businesses and community organisations. So far, approximately 500 stands have been installed over the last 5 years.

Find out more about cycling in Durham at http://www.durham.gov.uk/cycling