Understanding the Benefits of Covered Bike Shelters in Public Spaces

At the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester, up to 23,500 people will travel to major public events all year-round. The majority will drive, many will arrive by tram or bus, but a growing number will choose to cycle.

To cater and encourage this modal shift, just a few steps from the main entrance, nearly 300 cycle parking spaces await. They’re fully covered, highly visible, and completely free to use. In fact, they are positioned even closer than the car park. It’s a deliberate move that reflects a shift in priorities: to make cycling to major events not just possible, but practical and appealing.

Having outdoor cycle parking covered is hugely beneficial for those choosing to cycle. To keep people cycling throughout all seasons, protection from the weather is an essential. Whether it is rain in the autumn – and let’s be honest, anytime with British weather – or strong summer sun, a covered shelter helps keep your saddle dry, chain cleaner, and a bike that is ready to ride back home.

However, the benefits of covered shelters go beyond weatherproofing. As more cities work to reduce car dependency, high-quality, visible cycling infrastructure is playing an ever more important role. Covered shelters, if thoughtfully designed, offer advantages that support active travel, improve public space, and contribute to long-term sustainability goals.

Weather Protection That Encourages Everyday Use

When you’re cycling, reliable weather protection makes for a much more consistent and convenient transport option. A shelter, therefore, that shields bikes from rain, wind, and UV damage helps preserve bicycles and makes the experience more appealing for regular users. Dry, well-maintained bikes are easier to manage and encourage continued use.

While not every shelter provides additional security, it is possible to combine both. Some workplace shelters will offer key-card access, with many train stations providing subscription services to keep your bike locked behind a further gated entrance.

At Stirling Station, Turvec delivered an enclosed, covered cycle hub with high quality two-tier bike racks and stylish glass cladding. The result is a more secure, weatherproof facility that encourages confidence among cyclists who split their journey with train travel.

Contributing to Urban Landscapes

A well-designed shelter does more than provide cover, it contributes to the surrounding environment. With natural materials, integrated lighting, and landscaping, shelters can blend into or enhance public areas.

Timber, in particular, is a popular choice where concrete dominates the surrounding buildings. The wood tends to age and patina well, and also helps to soften the aesthetics of car parks.

At Glasgow Science Centre, we were able to fully demonstrate this approach. A timber-clad shelter with a green sedum roof complements the iconic metal clad science centre. With powder coating to match other street furniture, including bins and benches, the visual cues highlight the thought going into active travel projects.

Sustainability Features Like Green Roofs

Green roofs bring a wealth of added value to shelter design. They are a form of natural drainage, help lower urban temperatures, and support biodiversity. In addition to their environmental benefits, green roofs immensely improve visual appeal and help soften the look of built infrastructure.

At Co-op Live Arena, the green sedum roof on the cycle shelter contributes to the wider environmental goals of the venue. It adds greenery to a high-footfall site and shows how functional infrastructure can align with sustainable development.

The green roof shelter in front of a vast concrete car park shows the potential benefits of better cycle parking. In just a fraction of the footprint, we can help more people travel in a safe – and fun – way to public events.

Encouraging More People to Choose Active Travel

When cycling facilities are thoughtfully located, well designed, and clearly prioritised, more people will feel encouraged to cycle. Covered shelters help to reduce barriers and show that cycling is not only accepted but actively supported. Whether it is for daily commuting or flagship public events, having high-quality parking close to key destinations can influence behaviour over the long term.

Shelters like those at Co-op Live, Stirling Station, and Glasgow Science Centre – plus many of our other case studies – show how cycle parking can be more than an afterthought. They demonstrate that covered cycle parking plays a meaningful role in encouraging people to travel actively, comfortably, and confidently.