07 June 2021

Commenting on the start of the e-scooter trials launching across several London boroughs today, London TravelWatch Director, Emma Gibson said: ‘We welcome the e-scooter trials taking place in London. Our research on future transport highlighted that personal/micromobility solutions have the potential to be a much greener transport option for many people. However, there have been a number of incidents and accidents in other parts of the country which have already trialled e-scooter hire schemes so there will also be a need for enforcement against users who endanger others through anti-social behaviour or by riding on the pavement. TfL and local councils must also ensure that when not being used, scooters are kept in places that don’t obstruct the pavement. We would encourage local councils to include provision for secure docking as a condition when awarding hire companies licences to avoid the same problems they have experienced in Paris.’