The first trials are expected to begin the following
week. Local authorities and devolved administrations
hosting the trials can allow or run the rental schemes
in their areas, as outlined in
accompanying guidance for
areas and rental operators published today (30
June 2020).
Whether commuting to work or riding for leisure during
the warm summer months, local residents will soon be
able to test the benefits of e-scooters on roads, cycle
lanes and tracks.
The trials are designed to help understand whether the
devices reduce motor traffic, as well as their impacts
on safety for their users and others. They will be
strictly prohibited on pavements, will be limited to
15.5mph and riders are recommended to wear helmets.
Users will need a full or provisional car, motorcycle
or moped licence to take part in the trials, and must
be 16 or over. To avoid a flood of poor-quality
scooters onto the streets, the regulations only cover
rental schemes.
Individually owned scooters will still be illegal on
public roads.
Transport Minister said:
As we emerge from lockdown, we have a unique
opportunity in transport to build back in a greener,
more sustainable way that could lead to cleaner air
and healthier communities across Great Britain.
E-scooters may offer the potential for convenient,
clean and cost-effective travel that may also help
ease the burden on the transport network, provide
another green alternative to get around and allow for
social distancing. The trials will allow us to test
whether they do these things.
The trials, which are due to last for 12 months, will
be closely monitored so the government can assess the
benefits of e-scooters and their impact on public
space.
The rental schemes will involve leading companies in
the industry from Great Britain and across the globe
working closely with local authorities to provide a
plan for the controlled introduction of e-scooters in
cities, towns and rural areas.
