We like the look of uhut sheds. Aside from the distinctive styling, they can be fitted with vertical bike hangers, and their trademark panoramic roof floods the interior with natural light.
For example, the uhut 688 below, equipped with a bench and bike rack, allows a generous amount of space, and light, to work on your bikes in comfort. And to maximise storage options, the sturdy door can carry up to 80kg of tools, spare wheels or even a turbo trainer.
Do I need planning permission for a bike shed?
Urban living can present a problem where cycle storage is concerned. If you’re lucky enough to have a front garden, surely it’s safe to assume you can put up a small shed to store your bicycle? Not necessarily.
In theory, any structure erected in a front garden requires planning consent. However, in practice you’re probably OK unless you live in a strict conservation area or a neighbour complains. If that happens it’s likely you’ll have to apply for planning permission.
Given the price of bike sheds, it’s wise to sound out your neighbours before taking the plunge.
The government has just finished a consultation on relaxing planning requirements for bike sheds. The proposal is to allow bike stores in front gardens, including homes in conservation areas. The size of the bike sheds would be restricted to 2 metres in width, 1 metre in depth and 1.5 metres in height.
However, the change has yet to be introduced. In the meantime, it’s worth giving your local authority planning team a call for guidance.
We designed a flat-pack fake skip to discreetly house bikes – thankfully there are more practicable solutions
Security for bike sheds
Assuming you get a shed, be aware that thieves now target them. As a result, many cycle insurance companies now insist on a high level of door lock security.
By contrast, Cycle insurance from the ETA has a sympathetic policy towards keeping bicycles in a shed. You can use any type of lock to secure the door, and the bike doesn’t have to be locked while left inside. However, if it’s visible through a window you have to cover it with a blanket or similar. Read more about storage requirements.
The ethical choice
The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance, breakdown cover and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.
The Good Shopping Guide judges us to be the UK’s most ethical provider.
0 Comments View now