REDDITCH’S e-scooter trial will be extended until at least March 2022.

E-scooter provider, Bird, has confirmed that the extension comes after ‘significant growth and service expansion during this year'.

The decision was made by Redditch Borough Council to allow the company to continue its trial in the town.

In January and in May, the Redditch scooter service zone grew to include areas such as the Alexandra Hospital and Arrow Valley Park.

Redditch Borough Council leader, Matt Dormer, said the trail is helping reduce congestion in the town. He said: “This further expansion is really exciting for people living in the east and southwest of the town.

“Bird is helping us all to think twice before jumping in our cars, which is helping to reduce congestion and improve the air quality for everyone in Redditch.”

The company have introduced a growing list of safety and community initiatives to improve service.

These include Bird’s Helmet Selfie feature, an enhanced global ID scan to prevent underage riding and free rides campaigns for teachers and those travelling to and from COVID testing centres.

Bird have also participated in several community-focused initiatives including a partnership with safety app Busby to alert emergency contacts in case of an accident, as well as a Bird for Business partnership with Halfords in Redditch offering free rides to employees.

Halfords CEO Graham Stapleton said: “E-scooters have the potential to play a significant role in cleaner and greener commuting, while also easing the burden on public transport.

READ MORE

“As one of the largest employers in Redditch, I am delighted that our own colleagues will now have the option to travel to work in an environmentally friendly way, through this new partnership.”

The e-scooter trial was given the green light in September 2020 after a successful bid by the council to the government.