A major UK region is set to discuss plans to introduce a new e-scooter hire trial next week, in a move aimed at improving sustainable transport options and reducing congestion across the city.
The proposal launched by Brighton & Hove City Council will be considered by cabinet members on Thursday, October 16, with potential roll-out of e-scooter hire in 2026.
If approved, the trial would see approximately 300 e-scooters made available at around 30 existing Bikeshare hubs, primarily along the seafront and key transport corridors, operated by the city’s current provider, Beryl.
The council would first apply to the Department for Transport to take part in the initiative and conduct a six-week public consultation, allowing residents to provide input on the scheme before it begins.
The council argued that e-scooters can provide fast, affordable, and environmentally friendly alternatives to car travel.
A recent report from CoMoUK highlighted that e-scooters are particularly popular among lower-income users and that nearly half of riders combine their scooter trips with other modes of transport, enhancing the flexibility of urban mobility.
Councillor Trevor Muten said: “If approved, this would allow us to assess the viability of e-scooters in Brighton & Hove within a properly controlled scheme that eliminates the need for illegal e-scooter riding, which I know is a concern for many.”
Mr Muten added that other trials across the country suggest e-scooter journeys often replace car travel, reducing both air pollution and traffic congestion.
The council will introduce roughly 300 e-scooters if the trial gets approved
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BRIGHTON AND HOVE CITY COUNCIL
He added: “E-scooters will add to a growing and integrated transport network in our city.
“Our Bus Service Improvement Plan is already making bus travel easier and more affordable, and we’re investing around £8 million to improve our roads and pavements.
“New infrastructure on the A23, through Valley Gardens and along the seafront has made cycling easier and safer.
“It all adds up to a greater number of sustainable transport options for our residents and visitors.”
The proposed trial will also include a range of safety measures designed to protect both riders and the public following growing reports of e-scooters being used in an anti-social manner.
Under the proposals, only individuals aged 17 or over with at least a provisional driving licence will be able to hire e-scooters.
E-scooters will face restrictions on travelling as well as curfews at night
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TFLMeanwhile, e-scooters will be limited to roads, cycle lanes, and shared spaces, and will not be permitted on pavements.
The vehicles will feature a maximum speed of 12.5mph, front and rear lights, registration plates, horns, and GPS technology to prevent use outside designated zones.
E-scooters will also be subject to curfews, with riders unable to hire the vehicles between midnight and 5am on weekends, with a “go slow” speed of 6.5mph applying during the early morning hours on weekdays.
The council also stated that while helmets will not be mandatory, users will be encouraged to wear them throughout the trial area.
Mr Muten explained the council is keen to hear residents’ opinions before the trial begins.
“We’ll be listening to residents’ views and taking on their feedback before, during and after any trial. I’d urge everyone to take part,” he said.
If approved, Brighton & Hove would join more than 50 towns and cities across England currently running e-scooter trials.
Advocates stated that by integrating e-scooters into the city’s transport network, Brighton & Hove could offer a safer, greener, and more flexible way for residents and visitors to get around.
The consultation period and subsequent DfT approval will determine whether e-scooters become a permanent feature of Brighton & Hove’s streets.