More than 2,000 new bikes and e-scooters will be launched onto the streets of the West Midlands this April, following the appointment of Lime as the region’s chosen micromobility provider.
In a significant shift, the new partnership will be the first to operate at no ongoing cost to the taxpayer. The previous scheme required a £1.4 million annual public subsidy to run. Lime has committed to keeping overall hire prices consistent for the first two years, ensuring the service remains an affordable travel option, despite introducing a new fare structure.
From the launch on April 1st, the existing service area will see an immediate influx of Lime’s vehicles. Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), alongside local councils and the company, will also collaborate on plans to expand the hire network into new locations.
Customers will need to download a new app to access the service. Final pricing details and the full launch plan will be confirmed in the coming weeks ahead of the rollout.
Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: ‘By bringing in a brand-new fleet of bikes and scooters and freezing prices for the next two years, we’re making sure there’s a practical and affordable green alternative for shorter journeys – helping to tackle traffic congestion and improve the air we breathe.
‘And by securing a partnership that operates at no cost to the taxpayer, we are saving the public purse more than £1 million a year. This is money we can now reinvest back into our regional transport, delivering better journeys for everyone.’
Tom Newham, Lime Senior Manager of Public Affairs, said: ‘We’re thrilled to be coming to the West Midlands and to be working with WMCA, whose ambition for active travel has laid strong foundations for expanding shared bikes and e-scooters across the region.
‘The West Midlands is well suited and primed for this, with multiple towns and city centres close together and a strong public transport network. Through WMCA’s continued investment in micromobility and supporting infrastructure, there’s a real drive to make e-bikes and e-scooters a popular, practical and affordable choice for getting around.
‘From our experience running schemes in towns and cities across the UK, we understand what it takes to run a service people use and rely on every day. We’re looking forward to working with communities in every part of the West Midlands to build a service that’s run locally and works for everyone – whether they ride Lime or not.’
Photo: Oxana Melis
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