Bike security on campus moves up a gear

The University is stepping up its bike security measures following a rise in thefts on campus in recent months.

Although the University of Reading campus and halls of residence experience low levels of crime, the Estates Security team has launched Operation Velo – a proactive campaign to address this issue.

Staff and students are asked to:

1. Be vigilant and be aware of suspicious behaviour on campus.
2. Contact Security as quickly as possible on Ext. 6300 or 0118 378 6300 if you see a theft or suspicious behaviour. We would recommend adding this number to your mobile contacts so it is available when you need it.
3. Do not approach anyone you believe may be a thief.
4. Use a good-quality D lock, or more than one if you can, to secure the frame and wheels to a stand. Consider using the key access bike sheds where available. Good quality locks should continue to be used in these facilities. Visit SoldSecure.com to see a list of approved locks.
5. Security mark your bike or register it for free. See the BikeRegister or Immobilise websites for information, and look out for bike marking sessions on campus.

The University is working in partnership with Thames Valley Police and its halls management company UPP to help colleagues make their bikes more secure, deter thieves and respond to thefts on campus.

Bike storage facilities on campus are being reviewed to address vulnerable points and make them more secure, as well as better utilise resources like CCTV.The increase in bike thefts at the University follows a trend across Reading and the South East region. Efforts to steal bikes have become more sophisticated, with thieves often carrying metal cutting equipment.

Electric bikes and scooters are especially being targeted, at locations such as railway stations, shops, schools and universities.

The University’s Security team is able to respond far more quickly to reports of thieves on campus and will pass on all reported thefts to the police and assist them by sharing information and supporting investigations.

Staff and students are reminded not to store their bikes and scooters inside buildings as this creates a fire safety risk.

As part of its Green Festival 2022, the University is hosting a Sustainable Travel and Air Quality Day on Wednesday 9 November, from 12:00-14:00, during which staff and students can come to the Palmer quad to get advice on how to keep their bikes safe.

Longer-term strategic work to make campus more cycle-friendly is also planned by the Estates team and through its Travel Plan.