E-scoooter trial extended to include university site
Bath’s students and residents have a new option for tackling Widcombe Hill because the city’s e-scooter trial has been extended to cover the University of Bath’s Claverton Down campus.
The third phase of the trial, which started in 2020, means the scheme now extends over eight square miles.
The Voi e-scooters allow anyone over the age of 18 with a provisional or full UK driving licence to make short journeys around the city between 6am and 10pm. Since being introduced, they have replaced approximately 90,000 car journeys, helping to reduce congestion, improve air quality and lower carbon emissions.
The West of England is one of only four Future Transport Zones in the country. The zones have been set up to trial new transport technologies, such as e-scooters.
For safety reasons, the scooters are limited to 12.5mph, even when going downhill. Nevertheless, riders are strongly advised to wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, and follow Voi’s safety guidelines.
To celebrate the expansion, Voi is offering discounts. New users can get a free 30-minute ride using the code ‘BACKTOIT22’ (valid until October 31). And existing customers can receive a £5 voucher by completing the Ride Like Voila traffic school or taking a helmet selfie after their next ride.
Cllr Sarah Warren, deputy leader and cabinet member for climate and sustainable travel at Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “I am delighted our successful e-scooter trial is being extended to incorporate the University of Bath.
“With over 3,500 employees and nearly 20,000 students, the university is one of our area’s largest organisations. The e-scooters will give people more choice on how
they travel, especially for short journeys in and around Bath.
“They’re a great alternative to using private cars, yet still enable you to quickly and easily move
from A to B. They’re one of a number of sustainable travel measures we’re supporting to help tackle congestion, reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality, in line with the council’s journey to net-zero priorities.”
Ian Blenkharn, director of education and student services at the University of Bath, said: “It’s great news that students, staff and visitors now have another option for cheap and sustainable transport to campus from the centre of Bath, in addition to the vital bus routes on offer.
“Safety is of course our priority and we strongly encourage all riders to use the e-scooters responsibly and wear appropriate equipment, including helmets, at all times.”
Grace Packard, senior policy manager for Voi UK and Ireland, said: “We’re delighted to have expanded our operating area to the University of Bath as we are determined to get more people riding to support this historic city in achieving its net-zero ambitions.
“Key to the success of mircomobility and creating greener, cleaner cities is by giving more people the opportunity to leave their cars behind through expanding operating areas and offering a rental service and mode of transport, which is not only convenient and flexible to their everyday needs but is safe and sustainable.”
For more on the e-scooters, visit www.voiscooters.com or download the Voi app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.