E-scooter trials suspended in Coventry a week after they began due to misuse

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A government backed trial in Coventry to look at the best approach to legalising the use of e-scooters has been paused after concerns that some users have been riding the scooters on pavements.

The Government has amended legislation to legalise the use of e-scooters - under controlled conditions - as part of a rental scheme trial which rolled out in the city from Thursday last week.

The council has said the e-scooters have proved to be “extremely popular”, with around 5,000 rides being taken in the first few days of operation. However, over the weekend there have been some incidents reported where e-scooters have been used in pedestrianised areas where they are not permitted to be, causing the council to take action.

As a result, the Council and Voi have taken the decision to pause the scheme in order to review the first few days of the trial and identify ways in which it can re-commence in an appropriate manner.

A Council spokesperson added: “The trial has been introduced to identify the safest way that e-scooters can be used going forward so it’s right to pause the scheme if concerns are being raised.

“The initial take-up has been encouraging but we need to ensure that the safety of all people using the city centre is protected and that the e-scooters are used in the proper way, henceour decision to pause the pilot until systems are improved.”

A spokesperson for Voi said: “While we regret the pause to our service, we reiterate our desire and willingness to work with all local stakeholders to deliver a safe and successful trial that meets the council's objectives and confirms micromobility as a sustainable, safe and attractive mode for Coventry's citizens.

“We look forward to resuming the service with enhanced measures in place to address the early observations from the trial.”