Cycle hire operators are being invited to deliver a new e-bike share scheme in Derby to provide the public with more travel choice.
Building on the lessons learnt from Derby’s previous highly popular e-bike operation, the new scheme would be more targeted and secure, focusing on providing e-bike hire at key locations. The e-bike project will also build on the knowledge from Derby’s successful e-scooter scheme which has been in operation since Autumn 2020.
Making e-bikes available is part of giving people in Derby more transport choice. Offering people more sustainable travel options will improve health, reduce pollution and congestion. The funding for the scheme has been secured from the Department for Transport’s Transforming Cities Fund.
The Derby scheme will be aimed at students and specific communities where it will generate the most benefits locally. Enhanced safety and security features will also be included that will reduce theft.
Councillor Steve Hassall, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Decarbonisation, Strategic Planning & Transport, said:
This more targeted, more secure e-bike scheme will improve travel in Derby by giving people more choice. It is important to provide the public with more transport choice that reduces congestion and pollution. Delivering better, more accessible low-carbon transport will help tackle the climate crisis, promote economic growth and strengthen our communities.
Enhanced security measures could include better e-bikes and systems, a more stringent authentication process with cross-referencing photo Identification and card details to get approved accounts before e-bike hire is possible.
The e-bike project is part of Nottingham and Derby’s Transforming Cities programme. Working in partnership, Nottingham City and Derby City Councils secured £161 million from the Department for Transport to invest in local transport infrastructure that will improve sustainable transport, support growth, and encourage more low carbon journeys.
Cycle hire is an important component of Derby’s mobility programme. It’s part of providing multiple transport options at one location under new mobility hubs that will be developed at key destinations across Derby.