Published on Wednesday 02 June 2021
BCP Council have welcomed the introduction of upgraded GPS technology on Beryl’s fleet of e-Scooters, which has enabled the introduction of ‘Go-Slow’ and ‘No-Go’ Zones.
The Bike and e-Scooter hire company have announced the introduction of their new Geo-Fencing technology, which automatically and gradually slows down their e-scooters to a walking pace speed of 3mph, whenever they enter a "Go Slow" or "No Go" area. These areas will include the popular Sea Front Promenade during the busy summer restriction period.
The technology has been introduced as a new development, to help ensure safety of both riders and pedestrians and to promote fun and pleasure throughout what is expected to be a busy summer holidays in Bournemouth and Poole.
Councillor Mike Greene, BCP Councils portfolio holder for transport and sustainability said:
"The introduction of "No Go" zones is a further welcome development in the Government e-scooter trial and will ensure e-scooters operate wholly within the current Bournemouth & Poole scheme boundary. In addition, the technology will ensure e-scooters will not be used along the seafront during the July and August 10am – 6pm restriction."
Bournemouth and Poole are one of 50 locations across the country where a Department for Transport trial of e-scooters is taking place. Under current Law only rental e-scooters from one of these approved schemes can be used on public roads. All other privately owned e-scooters can only be used on private property.
Councillor Greene continued:
"BCP Council is pleased to be participating in the Government’s e-scooter pilot with our partner Beryl. So far, their fleet of 58 rental e-scooters have undertaken 14,500 journeys and travelled 83,300 kms. What’s more, many of these journeys have replaced trips that would have otherwise been taken by car.
"It’s great that the scheme is showcasing innovative technologies in our area, plus helping to reduce both emissions and congestion overall."
Feedback from the trial will help determine National Policy for the use of e-scooters in the future.