Poorly illuminated cyclists in Hull are being given free bike lights and reflective gear to ensure they are as visible as possible.
The Bike Lights for Dark Nights initiative, funded by Safer Roads Humber and run by Hull City Council, aims to help keep the city’s increasing number of riders safe.
The project is already under way, with the team focusing on busy junctions in and around Hull city centre.
On one evening, 27 lights were handed out to passing cyclists on Beverley Road and fitted on the spot. Reflective rucksack covers were also given to those who needed them.
Cllr Mark Ieronimo, portfolio holder for roads, highways and transport, said: “Increasing numbers of people are choosing to cycle in our city, and we want to help them do so safely.
“To make the roads safe for everyone during these dark nights, it is important that cyclists are as visible as possible. With this project, we are helping cyclists stay safe and seen on the roads.
“This is not about ‘catching people’ or ‘telling them off’ for not using lights, and the help has been well received by all the people the team has talked to so far.”
As part of the initiative, the highways team will also be visiting some of the city’s largest employers, including Hull Royal Infirmary and the University of Hull.
Lights and reflective wear will also be donated to local cycling charity R-evolution, which will distribute the equipment through some of the cycle hubs it operates in the city.
The team will be out on the streets until the end of March, when the clocks go forward, and will begin again next autumn/winter.
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