E-scooter scheme is suspended
Slough: Neuron partnership ends
Bright orange e-scooters are set to be temporarily removed from the streets of Slough following the suspension of a trial rental scheme.
Neuron Mobility has been operating hundreds of e-scooters in the town over the past two years as part of the council’s efforts to encourage sustainable travel.
The company announced on Wednesday that its rental e-scooter service will stop on November 30 due to a decision ‘outside of its control’.
Cormac Quinn, Neuron’s regional manager for the United Kingdom, said: “It is with regret that we confirm that Neuron’s rental escooter service in Slough is required to cease in Slough by November 30.
“This decision is outside of our control as we were expecting Slough Borough Council to complete a new procurement process which would have allowed us to extend our service, however sadly they were unable to do this.”
Slough Borough Council said the trial has been extended several times but as its contract with Neuron is coming to an end, it has to be opened up to tender to allow other companies to bid for it.
Labour councillor Mohammed Nazir, cabinet member for transport,
told the Express the council is planning on introducing a permanent escooter scheme in 2023.
“This is a chance to pause and evaluate the trial, whilst we undertake more work and preparation for an expected DfT decision on permanent schemes once the national trials have completed.
“It has been great working with Neuron Mobility UK throughout this successful trial, and seeing our residents and commuters enjoy scooting around the borough.”
Neuron said about 40 per cent of all e-scooter trips have replaced a car journey, saving more than 65 tonnes of carbon dioxide.
The vehicles have not proved popular with all residents though with some complaints made over e-scooters being scattered across pavements in the borough.
The council said a permanent e-scooter scheme could start up in June next year, subject to the council agreeing a deal and cabinet approval.