Key initiative removes hundreds of unsightly locks from city centre.
A large-scale clean-up initiative, aimed at improving the appearance of Milton Keynes City Centre by removing abandoned bicycle locks, has been hailed a success.
The project, carried out by business improvement organisation MyMiltonKeynes BID, removed more than 250 abandoned cycle locks which had been creating an ugly and cluttered streetscape across the city, particularly along Midsummer Boulevard.
It was part of MyMK’s Refreshed Business Plan 2024-27, which prioritises hands-on public realm improvements. The discarded locks will now be recycled, reinforcing MyMK’s commitment to sustainability alongside its ongoing enhancement projects.
“Our City Centre deserves to look its best, and even small but significant changes like this make a real difference,” said Jill Farnsworth, CEO of MyMK.
“Removing these old, abandoned bike locks has transformed the area. We’re delighted with the results and the positive impact on the streetscape.”
This initiative is one of many MyMK projects focused on maintaining and enhancing the city centre’s environment, ensuring it remains a welcoming and vibrant destination for businesses, visitors, and residents alike.
The BID (Business Improvement District) ‘Report It’ service, which allows businesses to flag issues directly to the team, has played a key role in identifying problem areas to bring about targeted clean-up efforts.
Following the success of ‘Operation Bike Lock’, MyMK is encouraging businesses to continue using the service to help maintain and improve the public realm. By reporting issues such as damaged street furniture, graffiti, or waste build-up, businesses can play an active role in keeping the centre attractive and well-maintained.
The completion of ‘Operation Bike Lock’ highlights MyMiltonKeynes BID’s commitment to taking action and not just reporting problems, and demonstrates the benefits that businesses and the community can experience from the work it does.
For more information on MyMiltonKeynes BID and its ongoing initiatives, visit: www.mymiltonkeynes.co.uk.
