South Gloucestershire is set to benefit from a significant expansion of the West of England’s e-scooter and e-bike hire trial scheme, as council leaders announce the inclusion of new areas for this sustainable transport initiative.
Beginning today, residents east of the Avon Ring Road will have access to the distinctive green e-scooters and e-bikes, with further expansion planned for July north of the M4 motorway. Previously, hire services were limited to Bristol, northern outskirts of the city, and parts of South Gloucestershire such as Kingswood and Staple Hill.
Metro Mayor Helen Godwin has confirmed that an additional 40,000 residents will soon be able to utilize the scheme. From July 7, the program will extend into more eastern districts including Cadbury Heath, Longwell Green, Oldland Common, and Warmley. Furthermore, the introduction of e-scooters and e-bikes will spread beyond the M4 to communities such as Coalpit Heath, Frampton Cotterell, and Winterbourne.
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In response to concerns about obstructions caused by improperly parked scooters, Mayor Godwin also unveiled plans to create additional designated parking bays. The rollout in Bristol and Bath since autumn 2020, facilitated by providers Voi, Tier, and now Dott, has contributed to the West of England ranking fourth nationally in Dott’s number of bike and scooter journeys.
“E-bikes and e-scooters have quickly become a key part of our transport mix, helping to reduce road congestion and improve air quality,” said Mayor Godwin. “With more residents gaining access, we are committed to encouraging responsible usage and parking to ensure convenience and safety for all. We will soon launch a joint safety campaign alongside police and councils to promote safe riding.”
It’s important to note that only e-scooters authorized as part of the official Department for Transport trial are legal on public roads. Privately owned e-scooters used on roads or pavements remain illegal and may be confiscated by police.
Cllr Chris Willmore, South Gloucestershire’s planning chief, welcomed the expansion as a positive step toward sustainable travel options. “This aligns with our climate and nature emergency goals, helping to reduce car dependency and improve air quality,” she said. “Small changes in how we travel can deliver significant benefits for the environment and our communities.”
Iqbal Ahmed, Dott’s head of public policy for the UK and Ireland, highlighted the milestone of 5 million rides within the West of England Combined Authority area, emphasizing shared mobility’s growing role. “Dott is committed to collaborating with local authorities and the Mayor to develop sustainable, integrated transport solutions,” he stated.
As the e-scooter and e-bike hire scheme enters its next phase, South Gloucestershire residents are encouraged to embrace this greener, more convenient way to get around.