Liverpool council signs deal to keep electric scooters at least until the end of the year

Electric scooters will remain a fixture in Liverpool city center for at least another six months.

Liverpool council has signed a deal to extend its deal with Swedish firm Voi until at least next year as it continues a wider trial across the country. Electric scooters for hire have become a common sight in the city center and further afield over the past three years as part of a trial scheme commissioned by the Department for Transport (DfT).

Liverpool was one of 32 areas chosen nationally for the pilot programme. Wrapping up the expansion yesterday, senior leaders admitted that while they are not “universally loved”, when used correctly they could be a “force for good”.

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Colorful scooters have adopted zones from the city council following the closure of the CityBike scheme. A 2022 local authority cabinet report said the size of the CityBike scheme had shrunk year-on-year due to theft and vandalism, along with a lack of funds available to invest in new bikes.

As a result, the scheme became what the council described as “unsustainable” due to annual losses of around £300,000 each year. With the city’s existing contract expiring in June and the DfT extending the project by a further two years, the local authority has now signed a six-month interim deal with a view to permanent provision in the city.

A report discussed by council members on Wednesday said the tests are required to allow electric scooters on public roads, otherwise electric scooters can only be ridden on private land with the landowner’s permission – they cannot be used in public. places, including roads, sidewalks, parks or cycle paths. The original deadline for completing the studies was November 2021, before being extended to March 2022 to account for the slower start due to the pandemic.

These were further extended until the end of May 2024. In November last year, the DfT announced a further extension to the process until May 2026.

Backing a plan to continue the role of vehicles in the city, Cllr Dan Barrington, cabinet member for transport and connectivity, said he was disappointed the government had not passed clearer legislation on scooters. He added that the council knew the 2,000 vehicles were not “universally loved” but would help Liverpool in its journey to zero and increase active travel.

Cllr Harry Doyle said he understood the continued frustration with their use by some, but said they were a “force for good when used correctly”. Cllr Liam Robinson, leader of Liverpool Council, said he thought the vehicles would be a bit “buggy” at first, but they have proved to be a success, placing Liverpool among the top five cities for use in Europe.

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