HARLOW Council is preparing to take a major step forward in transforming how people move around the town, with the launch of a modern, London-style cycle hire scheme targeted for arrival in late 2026.

For years, Harlow has been home to one of the strongest cycle networks in the country – over 30 miles of dedicated tracks linking every corner of the town. Now, the council is set to build on that legacy with a brand-new hire service designed to make cycling quicker, easier and more accessible for everyone.

In a report going to Cabinet on 17 December, the council will set out its plans for a scheme that unlocks genuine choice in how residents travel. Whether you’re commuting, getting to school or work, heading to the shops or making every day journeys across the town, this new service will give people the freedom to move around Harlow effortlessly.

Just like the system in London, users would be able to unlock a bike from a docking station in seconds, ride wherever they need to go, and simply dock it again when finished – ensuring bikes remain secure and pavements stay clear. No bikes would be free standing – all would be secured in docking stations

This initiative is a key part of the council’s mission to ‘secure our future’. It represents another major investment in modern, high-quality infrastructure and supports the town’s ambition to become a more connected and dynamic place to live, work and do business.

By making travel simpler, faster and more flexible, the scheme will strengthen access to jobs, education and services and help attract further investment into Harlow.

Announcing the plans, Councillor Dan Swords, Leader of Harlow Council, said:

“Harlow is on the move. This new cycle hire scheme will open up our town like never before – fast, simple and accessible travel at your fingertips. We already have one of the best cycle networks in the country, and now we are unlocking its full potential.

“Just like in London, bikes will be securely docked in designated areas – easy to hire, cheap to use and a great way to travel.

“This is another bold step in Building Harlow’s Future: a town that’s confident, connected and attracting the investment and opportunities our residents deserve.”

Councillor Alastair Gunn, Cabinet Member for Planning and Garden Town, added:

“This proposal is about giving every resident genuine choice in how they move around our town – making every day journeys easier, cheaper and more accessible than ever before.

“We’re putting in place everything needed to make this scheme a real success: secure docking stations across the town, high-quality bikes people can rely on, and a network designed so that cycling becomes a practical, everyday option for thousands of residents.

“This is exactly the kind of modern, ambitious infrastructure that will strengthen our town, support growth and help secure our future. It’s another step forward in Building Harlow’s Future.”

The council’s Cabinet will consider the report with the intention of appointing an operator and launching the service in 2026.