Weymouth, Portland and Dorchester e-bikes hired for 27,000K in first month
Beryl Bikes were launched in the towns in August
E-Bikes were hired out in Weymouth, Portland and Dorchester for 27,000 kilometres of journeys in the first month of them being available.
The Beryl Bikes were launched in the towns back in August, with Dorset Council revealing over 5,000 trips were taken.
The average journey was under 5km, but some saw riders go from Weymouth to Dorchester and back again.
Cllr Jon Andrews, Cabinet Member for Place Services at Dorset Council, said:
“I’m thrilled to see such enthusiasm for our new Beryl e-bikes. The scheme has exceeded all our expectations and proved a big hit with locals and visitors.
“They’re a great boost for the area and benefit the environment by offering a viable alternative for travelling around.
“I’m delighted so many people have been getting out and about and, with the added benefit of the electric boost, riders are going further afield to enjoy Dorset by bike.”
The scheme has generated nearly 3,000 hours of physical activity so far and, according to industry calculations, the first month alone saved half a tonne of carbon emissions.
Cllr Nick Ireland, Leader of Dorset Council, said:
“It’s fantastic news that over 27,000 kilometres have already been covered by Beryl e-bike riders in the first month.
“As a council, we’re committed to helping make our county more climate and nature friendly. And schemes like this are a great way of driving down our carbon footprint. They also offer residents and visitors an excellent opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature.”
Beryl CEO, Phil Ellis, said:
“We’re delighted with the impact our Weymouth, Dorchester and Portland scheme has had in its first few weeks, with hundreds of people across the three areas already choosing to give shared sustainable transport a try.
“We’ll continue to work with our partner, Dorset Council and listen to feedback from riders and stakeholders to help keep the scheme as fun, accessible and easy-to-use as possible.
“By doing this, we hope to continue having a positive impact on reducing traffic congestion and harmful carbon emissions while improving air quality and public health.”
There are plans for more bays to be set up in Weymouth and Dorchester in the coming months, adding to the 30 already operating.