Residents and visitors came together in the city centre for a drop-in event focused on promoting safer cycling and sustainable travel in Derby.

The event, held at St Peters Cross on Friday 10 April, was delivered as part of a partnership between Derby City Council, Derbyshire Constabulary, and St Peters Quarter and Cathedral Quarter BIDs. Representatives from each organisation were on hand to offer advice, answer questions and engage with members of the public.  

Attendees had the opportunity to receive free basic bike checks from Ay Up Bikes’ popular ‘Dr Bike’ service, helping to ensure that their bicycles are safe to use on roads across the city. The event also provided information on local cycling routes, initiatives across the city centre, and guidance on cycling regulations in the city centre where cycling is not allowed in particular areas between 10:00am – 5:00 pm.

These restrictions help to manage high footfall, ensuring that everyone is safe, particularly residents and visitors with accessibility needs. 

The event forms part of the Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting a healthier, greener and more connected city by encouraging residents to walk, cycle, and use sustainable methods of transport. This forms part of the Council’s vision for creating a safe and inclusive city. 

As part of the event, new signage has been installed, which  will be temporarily displayed on St Peters Street, ensuring that those who cycle are informed of the restrictions with accessible and easy-to-spot signs. 

Councillor Sarah Chambers, Cabinet Member for Communities, Equalities and Public Safety said: 

The cycling pop-up on St Peters Street was a huge success. Events like this are a great way to meet and engage with residents to promote safe, responsible cycling in our city. We are committed to making Derby an inclusive and accessible city where active travel is enjoyable for all residents and visitors.

By working in partnership with Derbyshire Police, St Peters Quarter and Cathedral Quarter BIDs, and other key partners, we can help residents and visitors to better understand cycling rules whilst also ensuring that their bicycles are safe and compliant. This will support our work towards a greener and more sustainable city.

Sergeant Jonathan Sharp from Derby City Centre Safer Neighbourhood Team said:

We want everyone to feel comfortable and safe whether they’re walking, cycling or driving in Derby.

Our officers have heard from the public, particularly elderly people and families, that they’ve felt unsafe when bikes are ridden through our busiest streets. This is why we will be talking to cyclists to ensure everyone is using our streets safely and legally.

We will continue to work with local partners and hosting events like the cycling information event to address the issues that matter to people in Derby.

Gemma Pindard, Deputy BID Manager for St Peters Quarter and Cathedral Quarter BID, said:

By working closely with partners and clearly highlighting the rules, we’re helping people understand where and when it’s safe to cycle in the city centre. It was great to see people engaging with the event on Friday and taking the opportunity to learn more. It’s about keeping Derby moving while protecting pedestrians and making sure the space works for everyone.