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Plans for micromobility in Scotland have been welcomed by a shared transport charity.
Transport Scotland has published the second delivery plan for Scotland’s National Transport Strategy, including a commitment to investigate micromobility.
Collaborative Mobility UK (CoMoUK), a registered charity that advocates for shared modes of transport, said it is hopeful that the commitment is a step towards the legalisation of e-scooters in Scotland.
Rachael Murphy, Scotland director for CoMoUK, said: “We welcome this delivery plan on the future of Scotland’s transport, particularly its Car Demand Management Framework and recognition of the role shared transport will play overall in achieving our national aims of decarbonisation and better places to live, work, learn and play.
“We are heartened by the commitment from Scottish Government to investigate micro-mobility and we are hopeful that sound legislation will ensure the safe, legal introduction of e-scooters to Scotland.”
The transport strategy outlines four priorities for transport in Scotland – reducing inequalities, climate action, economic growth, and improving health and wellbeing.
In its latest delivery plan, the Scottish Government has set out 70 actions to address those priorities, including the introduction of a Community Bus Fund and public consultations on cycling and active travel.
The delivery plan also includes plans to develop a new Car Demand Management Framework by 2025, which will explore the necessary use of motor vehicles.
Also included is a plan to engage with the UK Government to develop the legal framework for micromobility.
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Murphy added: “Mobility hubs have been proven to deliver place-based policy and sustainable transport goals, and we hope that the Regional Spatial Strategies will make use of them in achieving 20 minute neighbourhoods.
“We are keen to work with Transport Scotland on its Car Demand Management Framework. Our latest research shows that one car club car can replace up to 17 private cars in Scotland.
“We also support plans for five ‘Mobility as a Service’ pilots to provide people with easier access to information about sustainable transport options, and would encourage the development of mobility hubs to coordinate shared, public and active travel networks.
“Alongside the Scottish Government’s strong commitment to bikes for individuals, we must see a greater commitment to public shared bike and e-bike schemes, to complement private ownership.
“If Scotland is to meet its ambitious climate change targets, we must harness the full potential of shared transport.”
