Birmingham Post

All aboard as eco-boat hire scheme hits city’s canals

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AN ECO boat hire company is launching a new operation on Birmingham’s canal network. GoBoat was founded in London in 2017 and rents out the electric boats which can accommodat­e up to eight passengers.

It has now struck a deal to begin operations in Birmingham from April 8, basing itself at the Brindleypl­ace estate which adjoins the canal.

This is the first time the business has opened a base outside the capital where it carried more than 100,000 visitors last year.

The boats, which are both child and dog friendly, are self-driven, travel at speeds of 4mph and can be booked for trips of up to three hours long.

GoBoat’s co-owner Grant Sweeney said: “Birmingham has such a rich history with its waterways and, when we launched the business in 2017, we always wanted to expand and Birmingham has always been at the top of our list as a second home. And with the city linked so closely to its historic waterways, we couldn’t be more excited to launch in such a vibrant and thriving city.

“Brindleypl­ace is the perfect location for us, it’s a vibrant hub within the city and we’re looking forward to becoming part of their growing family.”

Matt Long, head of tenant engagement at Brindleypl­ace, said: “GoBoat is an establishe­d provider working in the boating leisure market, with a proven track record across a number of sites in

London, and we’re tremendous­ly excited to welcome them here to Brindleypl­ace and the heart of Britain’s canal network.”

 ?? ?? > The new boats at Gas Street Basin in Birmingham
> The new boats at Gas Street Basin in Birmingham

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