How to Convert Parking Spaces into Sheltered Bike Storage

Car parks have long been seen as a necessity. But commuting habits change, and priorities shift. Converting car parking spaces into secure cycle parking is one of the most effective ways to encourage active travel and get in with the times, without expanding your site.

As these changes happen, you may find that not every parking space is used every day. At the same time, more people are choosing to cycle, whether it's to save money, improve their health or reduce their environmental impact. This shift presents an opportunity. Instead of leaving underused parking bays empty, businesses can convert a small number of spaces into secure, sheltered cycle parking that supports employees, visitors and sustainability goals alike.

The benefits go beyond simply providing somewhere to lock up a bike. A well-designed cycle hub makes cycling a realistic option for more people, helps make better use of valuable space and demonstrates a visible commitment to greener travel. The best part is that it doesn't require a major redevelopment. In many cases, converting just two or three parking bays is enough to create a practical, attractive facility that delivers value for years to come.

If you're considering replacing some car parking with bike storage, the key is to plan it properly so people will actually use it. Here's how to get it right.

Start by assessing demand

Before removing any parking spaces, understand who will use the cycle storage. Ask questions such as:

• How many employees or visitors currently cycle?
• How many would cycle if secure storage was available?
• Are there nearby cycle routes or public transport links?
• Is demand likely to increase over the next few years?

It's often better to install slightly more capacity than you currently need. An attractive, secure cycle hub can encourage new cyclists, so usage often grows after installation. Read our blog on the topic for more.

Choose the right location

Location has a significant impact on how often the cycle storage is used. Where possible, position it close to the main building entrance so nobody can miss it and it is easy to get to and from. Plus, there you get bonus safety points as it is along a natural pedestrian route, which also means another important thing – it is already in a visible, well-lit area. A good location should also be away from delivery vehicles and heavy traffic. And lastly, we always recommend not skimping on extra security like CCTV or any form.

But essentially, think of it this way: if cyclists have to travel to the far corner of a large dark car park, the facility becomes less convenient, less secure, and less used.

Decide how many parking spaces to convert

A common concern is losing valuable car parking. In reality, you don't need much space, especially if you are being smart and buying two-tier racks, which double your storage capacity.

One standard parking bay can accommodate multiple bicycles when fitted with efficient racks. At the same time, two or three adjacent bays can create a substantial sheltered cycle hub suitable for dozens of daily users.

But also, if you're worried, you can go slower. Rather than removing a large section of parking immediately, many organisations start with a pilot installation and expand it as demand increases.

Select the right shelter and racks

Not every cycle shelter suits every site. Consider:

• Whether the shelter needs open sides for quick access or enclosed sides for additional weather protection.
• Roof materials that provide durability and natural light.
• Modular designs that can be extended later.
• Finishes that complement the surrounding buildings.

But remember that whatever you decide on the above, the best solution to the racks that will live underneath that shelter is two-tier ones - maximum capacity at minimum space.

Install quality cycle racks

Like we just said - the shelter is only part of the solution. The racks determine how the space is used, but they also decide how secure and convenient the facility is.

Look for racks that support the bicycle frame rather than only the wheel and allow both the frame and wheels to be locked. Good racks should also provide enough spacing between bikes and be able to accommodate a range of bicycle sizes, including e-bikes where appropriate. Our two-tier racks tick all the boxes.

Prioritise security

Security is one of the biggest factors influencing whether people choose to cycle. As we said above – don't skimp on extras. Consider including CCTV coverage, good LED lighting and access-controlled gates or doors. Some of our shelters, like the Bristol, come with all of these as add-on options to make specifying easier.

Make the transition gradually

If parking demand is a concern, there's no need to convert a large area immediately. A phased approach works well:

• Monitor current parking occupancy.
• Convert one or two bays.
• Track cycle storage usage over several months.
• Gather employee feedback.
• Expand the facility if demand increases.

This reduces risk while ensuring investment matches actual usage.

Maintain the facility

Cycle storage should be treated like any other site infrastructure. Schedule regular inspections to remove abandoned bicycles, check shelters for damage and clean roofs, gutters, and surrounding surfaces. Regular maintenance with small jobs like tightening or replacing small parts (if needed) will save you from bigger, more expensive trouble over time. A clean, well-maintained facility encourages continued use and bolsters a positive impression of the site.

Why it's worth doing

Converting a small section of a car park into sheltered cycle storage is a relatively straightforward project that delivers long-term value. It makes better use of available space, supports sustainability objectives, encourages healthier commuting, and indicates a commitment to modern transport choices.

Most importantly, success comes from intentional planning rather than simply installing a shelter. By choosing the right location, providing secure racks, planning for future growth, and properly maintaining the facility, organisations can build a cycle hub that people genuinely want to use.