Photomap

[Image taken 26.4.22] Wickes, Lysander Close, York. [Note: No street view at this location.] Context: #181645. I can’t think of a retail outlet that signposts at the entrance(s) that it has cycle parking, or where it is, even, when there is signage at the entrance that refers to car parking: #175123, #175124. The Tesco at Tadcaster Road, York, has a very visible marker proclaiming cycle parking (goo.gl/maps/8oJcEQGNSkUDJa7o7) but the racks are nowhere near it. In fact, they are difficult to find. When I asked for the flag to be moved to the place the parking is located, the supermarket declined. So signage isn’t always helpful. Two supermarkets in York I am aware of do have signs at the racks identifying the provision as for cycles: (Waitrose): #174629, (Tesco Extra, Clifton Moor): #166553 but you have to find it first. And it’s no indicator of quality or quantity. So, signage seems to get overlooked by planners. As does access to cycle parking even where it is provided: Aldi, Clifton Moor, York: #181649 is a newish outlet where this has not been considered. Wickes is a much older retail outlet yet it has racks, and of the practical Sheffield design, plus they are close to the entrance/exit to the outlet: all of which are 'good practice'. But there’s nothing anywhere proclaiming 'We have cycle parking' (despite that frame on the wall in the background being empty) which is likely why someone I spoke to stated Wickes was an example of a retailer she wanted to shop, yet at where there is no provision. Even if you know there is some, finding it is not easy. On my visit today (as on my previous one) there was no access from what feels like the natural approach – keep left through the car park. I can just about see cycle parking from here but the car parking blocks access. Has the planter been put in to keep access to the cycle parking clear? It’s a nice idea as it softens the appearance of the car park but it doesn't guarantee access to the cycle parking. As per my previous visit, a couple has parked one space over leaving the left-hand space free… not for access to the cycle parking but to load up with goods. Passing a vehicle close enough to be within the ‘door opening zone’ is not safe. Not on a road and not in a car park. Other images here today: #182123, #182124, #182125, #182126. Other images today and links: #182070.