Renting e-scooters and e-bikes now allowed on well-liked trail

The official network for rental e-scooters and e-bikes has been extended to include a well-frequented pedestrian and cycling path. The Bristol and Bath Railway Path, connecting Bitton, Emersons Green, and Temple Meads rail station, is now open to riders, as is Concorde Way leading to Ashley Down in Bristol.

Operator Dott has also broadened its service in Bath, covering Southdown, Odd Down, and Combe Down, adding 50 additional scooters and 30 new parking spots, marking one of Europes largest regulated trials.

Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, emphasized that the expansion offers residents "more travel options" while ensuring that "convenient mobility for some should not disrupt others."

The e-scooter program in the West initially launched under Voi, later managed by Tier, and is now overseen by Dott. The latest expansion follows similar developments in South Gloucestershire and the introduction of round-the-clock rentals. Vehicles operate only within designated areas covered by the official scheme.

Since the launch of a safety initiative in the summer, Dott reports over 11,000 fines issued for improper scooter and bike parking, reducing poor parking incidents by 50%. Iqbal Ahmed from Dott stated that the company is committed to "supporting local mobility needs while respecting the safety and requirements of both riders and pedestrians."

Mayor Godwin noted that "parking fines have significantly improved standards" and highlighted the benefits of new reporting tools and rules, including bans on two-up riding, to create a safer, more balanced environment for all users.

Riders must be at least 18 years old and hold a full or provisional driving licence. Operating the vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs may lead to prosecution or loss of driving privileges.

Rental e-scooters and e-bikes are now available 24/7 within the official service zones.

Author: Olivia Parker