PushBike thefts

Dear Residents,

The Barton Street Neighbourhood Team would like to make the Community aware of a recent increase in bicycle thefts reported since the start of the new school term. Reports have been received from several schools across Gloucester, including Gloucester Academy on Painswick Road, Barnwood Park School, and Finlay Primary School.

While many children and young people choose cycling as a healthy, affordable, and environmentally friendly way to travel to and from school, unfortunately offenders often see schools as an opportunity to target bicycles.

Thefts such as these can have a significant impact on families. Many bicycles represent a substantial financial investment, and for some young people they are their main means of travelling independently to school, clubs, and activities. Having a bike stolen can be both upsetting and disruptive.

🔍 What are we doing?

Officers are currently reviewing reported incidents and working with local schools to identify any patterns. Enquiries are ongoing, including efforts to obtain and review available CCTV footage in order to identify those responsible.

We are also engaging with schools regarding cycle storage facilities and security arrangements to identify any improvements that may help prevent further thefts.

✅ What can parents, carers and cyclists do now?

There are several simple but effective steps that can help reduce the risk of bike theft:

🔒 Use a good quality lock A strong D-lock or Sold Secure approved lock provides far better protection than lightweight cable locks alone. Where possible, use two different types of lock as this makes the bike less appealing to thieves.

🚲 Lock the frame and wheel Always secure the bicycle frame to a fixed object such as a bike rack. If possible, secure both wheels as well.

📍 Choose busy, well-lit locations Encourage children to use designated bike storage areas that are visible and regularly used by others.

📝 Record bike details Make a note of the bike's make, model, colour, serial/frame number and take recent photographs. This can assist police enquiries and increase the chances of recovery should the bike be stolen.

🏠 Secure bikes at home Many thefts occur away from schools. Ensure bikes are locked and stored securely in sheds, garages or within the home when not in use.

👀 Report suspicious behaviour If you see anyone acting suspiciously around bicycle parking areas, particularly near schools, please report it to us. Your information could help prevent further offences.

🚴 Bike Marking Events

The neighbourhood team is also looking at opportunities to arrange bicycle marking and registration events in the future. These events help owners protect their property and make recovered bikes easier to reunite with their rightful owners.

We appreciate the support of our local schools, parents and residents as we work together to tackle this issue. By taking a few extra precautions, we can make bicycles less attractive targets and help keep our young cyclists safe.