Agenda item

Councillor Hakata, Cabinet Member for Climate Action, Environment, and Transport and Deputy Leader of the Council introduced the report on Dockless Bikes, Transport and Planning. The report provided an update on the rollout of dockless bikes as part of the wider initiative to transition from car-based transportation to active sustainable travel. The report emphasised the benefits of dockless bikes in promoting active lifestyles and addressing climate change impacts. Councillor Hakata updated the panel on the next steps which included to launch the dockless bike scheme and publicise the date widely, to monitor feedback and make necessary adjustments to bike locations and pricing and to ensure ongoing communication and transparency with the community regarding the scheme.

The following points were noted in the discussion:

• Councillor Ali, raised concerns about the pricing of the bikes and inquired about concessions for specific groups. Hakata addressed this by highlighting the initial free period and discounts for students and key workers.
• There was disappointment expressed regarding the placement of bike stations and lack of early engagement on location selection. Hakata assured ongoing feedback mechanisms and short-term adjustments based on community input.
• On E-Bike friendly areas, members discussed the suitability of certain areas for e-bikes, suggesting utilising more road space rather than pavements.
• A comparison table of pricing among operators was suggested to clarify pricing and concession details.
• Clear messaging regarding concessions and pricing variations to users, including information on subscription options and associated fees, was discussed.
• The availability of concessions through various channels, including social media, websites, and signage at bike stations, was considered.
• Mechanisms for users to easily identify concession options and access relevant information, such as through mobile apps or websites, were proposed.
• Councillor Dunstall raised concerns about the cost, highlighting that Lime bikes were initially free or inexpensive upon launch. He inquired if this pricing model could be maintained for a longer duration. It was clarified that the pricing structure is outlined in the tender and agreement for the initial 24 months, with no certainty beyond that period due to contractual obligations.
• Assurance was given regarding improved arrangements with Lime, providing the council with greater influence moving forward. Lime had been enabled to deploy the bikes with plans to make a formal announcement through a clear press release.
• Councillor Caroll shared experiences from other boroughs where the rollout of bikes led to tensions in the community, particularly regarding access to pavements. Concerns were raised about the impact on wheelchair users and individuals with buggies due to limited space. Steps were acknowledged to address these concerns, with hopes for improved outcomes.
• Councillor Hakata acknowledged that there was a need for infrastructure development and noted there had been a notable shift towards cycling in recent year.

ACTIONS:

• To circulate a comparison table of pricing among operators.
• To arrange feedback meetings with relevant stakeholders.
• To publicise the launch date of the dockless bike scheme widely.
• To ensure clear communication channels for reporting issues with bike usage.
• To Organise walkabouts for community feedback.

RESOLVED:

The contents of the report were noted for information.