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British Transport Police accused of “writing off” bike thefts as Welsh commuters left exposed

Policy under fire

The row erupted after BTP confirmed it will not routinely review more than two hours of CCTV footage when a bike is reported stolen from a station. For most commuters in South West Wales, who leave their bikes locked up for an entire working day, that means thefts are unlikely to be investigated at all.

More than 4,100 bicycles were reported stolen from UK railway stations in 2024 – an average of 79 every week – according to figures released under Freedom of Information. Campaigners say the policy sends a dangerous message to thieves: that station cycle racks are “easy pickings”.

“Not decriminalised” – BTP response

Assistant Chief Constable Ian Drummond‑Smith insisted this week that cycle crime is still recorded and assessed, and that reports provide “valuable intelligence” to shape patrols.

In a statement, BTP said:

“Bicycle thefts have not been de‑criminalised as some headlines have suggested. When we do not have a clear time or location for the offence, or if there is a lack of CCTV, witnesses or other evidence, it can be very difficult to solve a crime. If it is available we will review around two hours of CCTV footage to try to identify the incident, but it is not proportionate to review longer periods as it keeps officers from being available to respond to emergencies, visibly patrolling railway stations and trains, investigating crimes with identified lines of enquiry or which cause the most harm to victims – such as violent or sexual offences.”

The force added:

“Even if an offence is not investigated, it still provides valuable intelligence. This helps us to direct patrols and operations more effectively, ensuring we remain proactive in preventing crime and protecting passengers and staff.”

Critics unconvinced

But critics point out that nationally almost nine in ten bike thefts already go unsolved, and argue the BTP policy entrenches that failure. British Cycling accused the force of “letting cyclists down”, while Cycling UK warned the approach “hits the lowest income groups the hardest” — those who rely on bikes and trains to get to work.

Sophie Gordon of Cycling UK said:

“Bike theft is not a petty crime but has serious social consequences. To have your means of getting around stolen can be devastating. The police need to take it seriously.”

Local stations in the spotlight

In Swansea, Llanelli, Carmarthen and Haverfordwest, commuters have access to cycle racks and shelters — often covered by CCTV but not the kind of secure, access‑controlled compounds found at larger English stations.

Across Wales, police recorded around 1,200 bike thefts in 2023/24, with hotspots around transport hubs and city centres. For passengers leaving their bikes at 8am and returning at 6pm, the message is stark: if it’s gone, don’t expect an investigation.

Ten ways to prevent bike theft

• Double lock it – use two quality locks, ideally of different types.
• Lock the lot – secure the frame and both wheels to a cycle stand.
• Keep it tight – lock your bike close to the stand to limit space for tools.
• Remove parts – take lights, wheels or saddle with you, or use locking skewers.
• Park securely – choose well‑lit, CCTV‑covered cycle parking.
• Register it – record your frame number on a national bike database.
• Mark it – use visible security marking to deter thieves.
• Secure at home – lock your bike indoors as carefully as you would in public.
• Check ownership – if buying second‑hand, verify the frame number.
• Act fast – report thefts immediately with frame number, photos and details.

Source: British Transport Police

Prevention over enforcement

BTP say they are working with train operators to improve CCTV coverage and advise cyclists to double‑lock bikes, register frame numbers and use secure parking. Research shows that using two different locks can cut the risk of theft by half.

But campaigners argue prevention without enforcement risks emboldening criminals. With Welsh Government policy pushing for more active travel and integrated journeys, confidence in station cycle parking is being eroded just as it is most needed.

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• Swansea University’s bike hire scheme sees a near 300% increase in users
• Council reveals new generation of bike hubs for city commuters and visitors

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Sunday, October 5, 2025

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