A new public e-bike hire service delivered by operator Beryl launches in the city of Leeds, England tomorrow.
The initial phase will see 300 e-bikes deployed at 40 docking locations across the City Centre and University Corridor throughout the autumn.
In partnership with Leeds City Council and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, the service is being funded by the Combined Authority through its Transforming Cities Fund programme. City officials say the £2.86 million scheme has been a long ambition of Leeds and is part of the city’s broader mobility plan called the Connecting Leeds Transport Strategy.
Councillor Helen Hayden, Executive Member for Infrastructure and Climate, told Zag Daily: “Our vision for Leeds is to be a city where you don’t need a car. To do this we need to ensure everyone has an affordable and accessible zero carbon choice in how they travel. Leeds City Bikes allows people to complete the last mile of their journey in a fun, affordable way.”
Leeds City Bikes is made up of a fully electric fleet to encourage cycling uptake amongst older people, those with limited physical strength, and limited cycling confidence who may otherwise be deterred by traditional bikes.
Phil Ellis, CEO of e-bike operator Beryl that developed the scheme, told Zag: “All Beryl schemes are designed meticulously to provide the best possible service for users by combining industry knowledge with the bespoke needs of the city’s integrated transport network.
“Leeds has been no different in this respect and we have worked hard with our delivery partners to ensure a meticulous approach, consulting with the right stakeholders, organisations and community groups prior to delivery.”
An event to celebrate the launch is scheduled for September 23 where the public can ask questions and test out the bikes in led rides.
Subject to further funding, it is hoped the Leeds e-bike hire service will be the first of many to be rolled out across West Yorkshire in the future.
