BCP Council partner with Beryl to offer free cycling on the morning commute

For three months until  30th September, residents of Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole can have free use of one of the region’s 650 Beryl bikes, for 30 minutes between 5am and 10am.

The aim of the scheme is to introduce people to the idea of cycling to work, which is clearly a more attractive proposition in the Summer months.

Beryl have operated in BCP for four years, proving bikes, e-bikes, e-scooters and 355 Beryl Bays. A recent survey by the company found that the number of commutes made on their bikes in 2022 had more than doubled on the previous year, and that 40% of all riders questioned had reduced their car usage since using Beryl – an increase of 26%.

The BCP scheme recently passed the milestone of replacing over 2 million km of road transport journeys – the equivalent of over 50 journeys around the Earth.

In total, the scheme has generated over 1.5 million journeys, of which over 379,000 have replaced trips that would have been taken in a car, van, taxi or motorbike. 

Councillor Vikki Slade, BCP Council Leader said: ‘The Beryl hire scheme is all about trying to encourage more people to leave the car at home and to take up sustainable and active forms of transport.  This promotion, timed perfectly during summer, provides the ideal opportunity to give cycling or scooting a go.  And with Beryl bikes on virtually every corner, there really is no excuse at all.’

Beryl CEO and co-founder, Phil Ellis, said: ‘Commuting by bike is not only convenient and fun, it’s also cost effective when compared to private vehicle use, removing the cost of petrol, parking, tax, insurance and MOT. 

‘BCP’s picturesque scenery makes it a great place to do so, allowing you to take in the views and the fresh air on the way to or from work. 

‘With the warmer weather and longer days combined with this latest offer, now is the perfect time to give it a go.’