CYCLISTS are set to benefit in Royston with 100 new bike spaces soon available at the town’s train station.

Government announced the plans last week and will be working with First Capital Connect to install �27,000 worth of improvements in a bid to encourage more people to cycle.

Royston’s mayor, Robert Inwood, welcomed the move.

He said: “This can only be good news for the town and environment.

“Hopefully people will think this is a good move that will encourage them to get fit and alleviate some of the congestion in the town.”

The East of England is set to become more bike friendly with hire service on arrival at one of 15 stations across the region.

Commutes will be improved with accessible exits and entrances created for bicycles but it is undecided which stations will be upgraded at present.

Local transport minister Norman Baker said: “I know these plans will be hugely beneficial to communities and cyclists in the East of England. They will also help to create jobs and reduce our carbon footprints while making cycling safer and more convenient – further emphasising the government’s dedication to offer sustainable transport for all.”

The Department for Transport has worked closely with the Association of Train Operating Companies, UK transport charity Sustrans, the Cycle Rail Working Group and local councils to design and approve the projects.