Brighton and Hove City Council’s leadership team has sanctioned a two-year trial period for electric scooter rentals.
Approximately 400 e-scooters will be integrated into Beryl BTN’s existing pedal bike hire scheme, with a potential start date before the warmer months arrive.
At Thursday’s gathering (April 23), Labour representative Trevor Muten pointed out that Brighton and Hove has already proven its ability to work effectively with Beryl, noting substantial uptake of electric bikes among residents who previously displayed no interest in cycling.
Councillor Muten, who holds the transport and city infrastructure portfolio, stated that the scheme builds directly upon that proven track record. It does not introduce an alternative operator, a new contract, or an untested method. Rather, it extends an established programme using dependable technology alongside well-defined responsibilities. The wider context must also be taken into account. E-scooters are already being ridden unlawfully across the city. Without intervention, there is no way to verify insurance, screen licences, enforce regulations, or maintain proper supervision. A managed pilot scheme allows appropriate governance of usage – or provides solid evidence to establish whether such an arrangement is appropriate for Brighton and Hove.
Although personally-owned electric scooters remain banned from public roads, the council has obtained permission from the Department for Transport for this experiment.
A public consultation ran during November and December of the previous year, drawing 1,293 responses.
Those taking part showed strong support for technology detecting improper passenger carrying and pavement riding, along with sound alerts – resulting in all scooters being equipped with horns.
There was broad consensus for availability at all hours and designated zones where speeds would be restricted to 6.5mph rather than the standard 12mph.
Prohibited areas include Hove Promenade, the lower waterfront, Madeira Drive boardwalk, The Level crossing points, the undercliff path, together with all skate facilities and pump tracks.
Labour councillor Jacob Allen, the cabinet member with responsibility for customer services and public spaces, backed the decision to mandate that scooters must be returned to designated docking stations.
Councillor Allen noted that in the City of London he had observed scooters left strewn across street corners. He expressed approval for most of the restricted zones, including Cranbourne Street and Lewes Road north of Saunders Park, as well as the bus depot site. He said he appreciated that provisions exist for temporary restrictions – for example, during Pride celebrations, St James’s Street should be off-limits to e-scooters, as should areas near Preston Park. Having that flexibility proves essential.
Councillor Allen mentioned that residents requested the undercliff be removed from restricted zones, though views were divided. He sought information about the assessment methodology.
Councillor Muten recognised worries about velocity, particularly concerning cyclists and narrow sections along the undercliff route between the Marina and Saltdean, undertaking to cooperate with local ward members to formulate a solution.
Council leader Bella Sankey declared that the pilot marks advancement towards greener travel options.
She outlined that the trial can ensure e-scooters are dealt with sensibly, within a regulatory framework and under proper management while efforts continue to improve air quality throughout the city, reduce congestion, and assist residents in getting around more conveniently and quickly.
She added that the city welcomes progress, and new mobility solutions aligned with community requirements should always be embraced.
Electric scooter hire will only be available to those aged 17 and above who hold at minimum a provisional driving licence.