IN NEWS that will bring groans from its opponents and cheers from its fans, the e-scooter trial in Redditch has been extended to November 20, 2022.
The scheme was due to finish at the end of this month.
To coincide with the extension, Bird has deployed a brand new fleet of its ‘Bird Three’ vehicles, its most advanced e-scooter as well as providing free rides to NHS workers.
Bird’s operational zone includes the Alexandra Hospital and workers can sign up by emailing a copy of their NHS identification card along with their name and phone number to [email protected].
Bird says NHS riders will receive two free 30 minute rides per day.
Strategic planning and conservation manager at Redditch Borough Council, Michael Dunphy, said: “The trial has gone well so far and we have managed to iron out some of the initial issues.
“We continue to work closely with Bird as a collaborative partner, to make the scheme accessible, and help even more of our community get where they need to go without the need for a car.”
James Padden, general manager of Bird UK and Ireland said: “We are thrilled to support the trial extensions together with Redditch County Council and we applaud their dedication to reducing carbon emissions in the town.
“Since the start of the trial, we have recorded a safety incident rate of 99.9 per cent of rides starting and ending safely without issue, highlighting how our convenient and fun e-scooters provide a safe and clean alternative to motor transport.”
Redditch MP Rachel Maclean has been a supporter of the scheme. She said: “I remain proud Redditch is one of the e-scooter trial areas in the country and I’m pleased the e-scooter trial has been extended.
“The trial is providing evidence on the true impact of electric scooters, for example: how safe they are; how they are used; whether potential benefits can be realised; and on how to manage potential downsides.”
