Micromobility operator Beryl is both introducing a bike hire scheme in Borehamwood and expanding its shared e-scooter service in Norfolk.
Beryl already operates shared micromobility schemes in Watford, Hereford, Bournemouth, Isle of Wight and Norwich, providing 6,204 bikes and around 450 e-scooters in total.
The firm has now agreed to a four-year contract with the Hertsmere Borough Council to provide hire bikes in Borehamwood starting later this year.
The decision follows the success a similar scheme had in Watford, where around 100,000 journeys were completed in 2021.
“The new cycle hire scheme allows users to make quick, easy trips across the town and surrounding area – perfect for work, leisure or running errands,” said Councillor Seamus Quilty.
“Opening up this scheme to all will help to support our local town centre economy, as well as our efforts to improve air quality, health and wellbeing.”
Meanwhile, Beryl is set to double the number of e-scooters in Norwich from 250 to 500, while also expanding the scheme into neighbouring Wymondham, Hethersett and Drayton.
According to Norfolk County Council member Martin Wilby, more than 150,000 journeys have been made on e-scooters since the shared trial began in September 2020.
“We know that many of these journeys would otherwise have been made by car, so, used in a controlled and responsible way the potential to reduce congestion on our roads and improve air quality is massive,” he added.
