TICKET TO RIDE
New e-scooter scheme trial to help residents get round the city
An e-scooter scheme is set to be launched in Sunderland as part of a pilot aimed at transforming the way Wearsiders get about.
The scooters, which would be limited to a top speed of 12.5mph, offer the potential for cleaner, inexpensive travel and for more social distancing during the Covid pandemic, according to city leaders, and could be rented by the hour or for longer periods.
The e-scooters would be GPS tracked and have a ‘Geofence’ system to ensure they are only used on designated routes.
A similar scheme is already
up and running in Teesside, where there were some teething problems, and city leaders stress this is a pilot aimed at examining
how well the project works and what issues might arise.
Sunderland City Council's Cabinet meeting on Tuesday will consider giving the green light to a scheme that could begin in March 2021 and run for approximately eight months.
The trial will assist with Department for Transport research and future decisions on legalising their use.
Council leader Councillor Graeme Miller said: "Trials have been approved in other towns and cities and scooters have the potential for another convenient, clean and cost-effective transport choice.
"Our trial is about providing capacity and support journeys and two possible key employment and education routes such as from the city centre to the Royal Hospital and University of Sunderland sites.
"E-scooters could also be used by visitors and tourists for leisure type journeys along the seafront by linking with the city centre and some of our Metro stations.
"They could help support first and last mile journeys, especially on routes that have capacity limited public transport."
Riders would have a user app to confirm they have either a full provisional driving or motorcycle licence.
Cllr Miller said the council and any operator would also encourage helmet use, and there are no financial costs to the council for taking part in the scheme.
"E-scooters offer the potential for fast, clean and inexpensive travel that can help ease the burden on transport networks and they allow for social-distancing,” he said.