British Transport Police Must Investigate All Station Bike Thefts

Every day Watford residents rely on cycling to get to their local train station. Watford commuters who cycle to local train stations are increasingly falling victim to bike theft, with little to no consequence for those responsible. Despite CCTV footage outside local stations like Watford Junction and Bushey, British Transport Police have confirmed they will not investigate thefts if a bike has been left for more than two hours.

This approach means the vast majority of station bike theft reports will now go unchecked, effectively decriminalising bike theft outside stations. This sends a dangerous message that thieves can operate with impunity, even in broad daylight and under the watch of CCTV cameras. 

This approach undermines efforts to promote healthy and sustainable alternatives to driving, leaving our town’s cyclists exposed to repeated theft. If we want to encourage cycling in Watford and across the country, this approach must change. 

Please sign our petition to urge British Transport Police to investigate all bike thefts, regardless of how long the bike was parked.