Rail operator Govia says there will be room for bikes in new trains it is ordering for Sussex routes.

Chief executive Keith Ludeman said there were demands for storage space on trains which could be used for wheelchairs, heavy luggage and bicycles.

Cycling organisations were worried there would be little or no room for bikes on the trains, which could come into service from next year.

Govia, which already runs Thameslink, will take over the South Central franchise from Connex by March 2003.

Mr Ludeman said there could be a reduction in the number of bikes carried on trains because better storage, watched by CCTV cameras, would be provided at stations.

Mr Ludeman said: "There will be vestibule space for cycles which is entirely adequate for short trips. We have no plans to charge for carrying bicycles or to impose a reservation system."

Brighton and Hove Cyclists' Touring Club spokesman Dave Witts said: "The news is a bit mixed but overall seems positive and can be built on."