E-scooters are now up for hire in Colchester
The new scheme is being run by Spin in partnership with Essex County Council
People in Colchester can now hire e-scooters.
The trail scheme, which is run by Spin, launches today (15th February) in the city.
Essex County Council is working together with Spin, Colchester Borough Council and Essex Police on the trials as part of their Safer, Greener, Healthier transport initiative.
A key aim is to provide a socially-distanced and safe way for people to travel that also reduces the number of short car journeys made.
Spin’s previous experience in Milton Keynes shows 63 per cent of e-scooter riders used an e-scooter instead of driving.
Current rules are that Spin e-scooters are legally allowed to go anywhere that bicycles are legally allowed to go. But, bicycles and e-scooters are not allowed on pavements.
All users who hire a Spin e-scooter will be given thorough compulsory training before they can hire a scooter, including modules on responsible driving and disability awareness.
To legally ride a Spin e-scooter you must be 18 years old and have a driving licence. The act of hiring a Spin e-scooter provides you with insurance.
‘Geofencing’ technology will be used to stop e-scooters being used in areas where they are not permitted. Scooters can operate at a maximum of 15.5 mph and geofencing will be used to create ‘go slow’ and ‘no go’ areas.
Police advice
The owners of privately owned e-scooters which do not form part of the trials must understand that their use on the County’s roads remains illegal and they can expect their vehicles to be seized.
Essex Police will where appropriate be enforcing safety regulations and the licence and insurance requirements just like any other vehicle on the public highway: