The number of hireable folding bikes outside Surbiton station has doubled to due increasing demand from cyclists.

Kingston Council has expanded the Brompton Bike Hire scheme from eight to 16 cycle bays due to the foldable bikes proving so popular across the borough.

The bikes were installed in July to complement the council’s planned 10 cycling routes being as part of the mini-Holland programme.

Councillor Terry Paton, deputy leader and portfolio holder for the Go Cycle programme, said: “The Brompton Bike Hire scheme has proven to be a terrific success at Surbiton and has provided locals and visitors with even more travel options for getting around the borough.

“There has been such a great demand for bikes that we’re pleased to be extending the dock to meet this demand, as well as looking at options for future docking stations elsewhere in the borough.”

The bikes are available to hire for as little as £2.50 for 24 hours, with the council aiming to make Kingston among the capital’s most cycling-friendly boroughs in London.

Construction has already begun on numerous cycle routes across the borough as part of the £33m mini-Holland project, including a route from Surbiton to Kingston town centre.

Parts of the scheme have proved controversial, particularly the trial closure of Surbiton Crescent and plans to remove New Malden’s Fountain Roundabout.

Brompton Bike Hire’s sales manager Michael Foster said: “The usage of Brompton Bike Hire at Surbiton station has been impressive since the dock was launched in July last year.

“While all of our London based docks are generally popular, our first docking station in Kingston has been a very strong performer.

“We look forward to continue to work with Kingston Council to find more locations in the borough to expand our network for Brompton Bike Hire."

Sign up for the hire scheme by registering online.