The Voi e-scooter trial in operation across the West of England has been extended to include the University of Bath’s Claverton Down campus.
Councillor Sarah Warren, Ian Blenkharn, Councillor Matt McCabe and Alfie Marsh | Photo © University of Bath
The third phase of the e-scooter trial now includes Widcombe Hill, allowing users to commute to the university site.
Eight square miles are now covered across the Bath area, enabling people to easily commute or take short journeys around the city.
The West of England is one of only four Future Transport Zones in the country trialling new transport technologies, such as e-scooters, to help reduce congestion, improve air quality and lower carbon emissions.
The e-scooters, which are reported to have replaced approximately 90,000 car journeys since being introduced, can be hired by anyone aged 18 and over with a provisional or full UK driving licence, between 6am and 10pm. They are limited to 12.5mph, even when coming down Widcombe Hill for additional safety.
All users are strongly encouraged to wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, and follow Voi’s safety guidelines.
Members of the public have raised concerns as to why only Widcombe Hill has been included in the trial, and not others routes such as North Road and Bathwick Hill.
Councillor Sarah Warren, deputy leader and cabinet member for climate and sustainable travel, said: “I am delighted our successful e-scooter trial is being extended to incorporate the University of Bath.
“With over 3,500 employees and nearly 20,000 students, the university is one of our area’s largest organisations.
“The e-scooters will give people more choice on how they travel, especially for short journeys in and around Bath.
“They’re a great alternative to using private cars, yet still enable you to quickly and easily move from A to B.
“They’re one of a number of sustainable travel measures we’re supporting to help tackle congestion, reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality, in line with the council’s journey to net zero priorities.”
Ian Blenkharn, director of education and student services at the University of Bath, said: “It’s great news that students, staff and visitors now have another option for cheap and sustainable transport to campus from the centre of Bath, in addition to the vital bus routes on offer.
“Safety is of course our priority and we strongly encourage all riders to use the e-scooters responsibly and wear appropriate equipment, including helmets, at all times.”
Grace Packard, senior policy manager for Voi UK and Ireland, said: “We’re delighted to have expanded our operating area to the University of Bath as we are determined to get more people riding to support this historic city in achieving its net zero ambitions.
“Key to the success of mircomobility and creating greener, cleaner cities is by giving more people the opportunity to leave their cars behind through expanding operating areas and offering a rental service and mode of transport, which is not only convenient and flexible to their everyday needs but is safe and sustainable.”
In celebration of the expansion to the University of Bath, Voi is offering some user discounts.
New users can receive one free 30-minute ride using the discount code ‘BACKTOIT22’ (valid until 31st October 2022), while existing users can receive a £5 voucher by completing the Ride Like Voila traffic school or taking a helmet selfie after their next ride.
