A NEW cycle shop has opened at York Station, as rail operators look to make the site more accessible to cyclists.

York retailer Cycle Heaven is behind the venture, and is offering cycle sales, repairs and hire to the hundreds of cyclists who use the station every day.

Founder and director Andy Shrimpton said the idea was likely to spread nationwide as travel patterns begin to shift away from car dependence to more diverse modes of getting around.

The new shop also sells folding bikes so customers can arrive with bike in hand – by train, car, bus or taxi.

Mr Shrimpton said: “We’re thrilled to be at York Station. It’s been an instructive and somewhat challenging experience as a small independent retailer moving into an environment largely populated by large corporate businesses, but we stuck at it and we think we’ve created a unique and beautiful space in a formerly moribund part of the station.

“In business terms, it’s a great strategic fit, but as I’ve always been a railway enthusiast, as much as a bicycle romantic, there’s an emotional connection there too.

“We’re delighted to be joining the railway community and have been made very welcome.”

Later this month, East Coast will unveil further improvements for cyclists using the station.

New access routes are to be opened up at the north and south ends of the station, making the building more accessible for cyclists.

Tim Hedley-Jones, East Coast’s property and projects director, said: “We are delighted to welcome Cycle Heaven to York station – we’re sure their facilities will be much in demand in York, which has many hundreds of keen cyclists.

“Many travellers use pedal power to reach York station, enjoying the convenience of free and secure cycle parking within the building. The sales, repair and hire service which Cycle Heaven now offers will complement the facilities already in place for cyclists, and the keenly-awaited access improvements which are just around the corner.”