Tackling orphan bikes in Geldrop
In our municipality, orphaned bicycles regularly cause a nuisance. These are bicycles that are no longer used, but remain in public spaces. They are often bikes with limp tires or bikes that are missing parts, such as a saddle, handlebars or wheels. In many cases, it is likely that these bikes do not (or no longer) have an owner.
In recent weeks we have carried out an action in the center of Geldrop and at the NS railway station in Geldrop. These locations were chosen because a lot of nuisance is experienced here from abandoned bicycles.
How does it work?
Bicycles that are suspected of being abandoned will be marked with an eye-catching sticker. This shows that the municipality is monitoring the situation and reminding the owner to remove the bicycle. Bikes that are still in the same spot after fourteen days will be removed.
The removed bicycles are temporarily stored at Lunet Health's day care center Het Laar. Here they will be kept for at least three months. Within this period the owner can still report to pick up the bicycle. It is also checked whether the bicycle is registered as stolen. If so, the bicycle will be handed over to the police.
Bicycles that are not collected are refurbished or used for parts. They are then given a second life: for example, through sale or donation to charity.
Why are we doing this?
With this action, we ensure that bike racks are again available to active users. We also contribute to a neater and safer streetscape in our municipality.