micromobilitybiz Delivering news updates to the micromobility industry, focusing on e-bikes, e-scooters and green transport
Beryl and Hertsmere Borough Council are celebrating a successful first year for their bike and e-bike share scheme, which has had a positive impact on sustainable travel in Borehamwood, whilst cutting carbon emissions.
Launched in October 2022 with 25 bikes and 20 e-bikes, the scheme now has more than 4,200 riders, who have generated nearly 13,000 sustainable transport journeys across more than 27,500 kilometres.
Feedback from those users shows that more than 2,150 of their trips have replaced a private road transport journey, including driving or being a passenger in a car, van, motorbike or taxi.
According to industry calculations, that has saved almost a tonne of carbon emissions.
Phil Ellis, Beryl CEO and co-founder, said: “It’s true that, by bringing a well-planned, easy-to-use and cost-effective bike share scheme to an area such as Hertsmere, you break down the barriers to cycling for a lot of people.
“I think the numbers show that we have achieved that so far and, by doing so, have had a positive impact on alleviating traffic congestion, reducing carbon emissions and improving public health.
“I’m looking forward to working alongside our scheme partners Hertsmere Borough Council to build on the scheme’s successful start and encourage even more people to make more sustainable transport choices.”
The scheme’s 27 bays have been located as conveniently as possible following consultation with communities and key stakeholders. This means that 28,089 people are no more than a five minute walk from a bay, which represents 87.5% of the service area’s population.
The project is being funded by Strategic Community Infrastructure Levy, Section 106 contribution from SKY Studios and Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy from Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council.’
Cllr Paul Richards, Portfolio Holder for Environmental Sustainability and Net Zero and Public Health, said: “I am delighted so many people have already taken to a Beryl bike in Borehamwood. I love to see them being used around the town.
Read more: Coalition for Cyclist Safety launches in North America based on V2X deployments
“Our cycle scheme is a sustainable and healthy way for our residents and visitors to get around Borehamwood, without having to rely on petrol or diesel-powered vehicles. Beryl bays have been installed at key locations, which allows users to make quick, easy trips across the town and surrounding areas – perfect for work, leisure or running errands.
“The cycle hire scheme is just one part of our sustainability aims and our commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions no later than 2050. It will help us to make positive impacts not only on our environment, by reducing car traffic and air pollution, but also on the health and wellbeing of our local communities, by providing a healthy alternative to jumping in the car. It’s simple and cheap to hire a bike, so why not download the app and give it a try.”
