Nottingham is set to welcome back e-scooters to its streets, with European micromobility operator Dott taking the reins for the re-launch of the city’s shared e-scooter service. This move comes after a hiatus following the liquidation of the previous operator, Superpedestrian, in December 2023. The new scheme promises a greener, more convenient transport option for residents and visitors, with a host of safety measures and improved infrastructure in place.
A Fresh Start for E-Scooters in Nottingham
The return of e-scooters to Nottingham marks a significant step in the city’s efforts to provide sustainable transportation alternatives. The program, which is part of a broader government trial set to run until May 2026, is designed to reduce car use, ease congestion, and lower harmful emissions.
Dott Takes the Helm
Dott, a well-established micromobility company with experience in over 400 cities across Europe and the Middle East, has been selected by Nottingham City Council to operate the new e-scooter scheme. The company’s bright blue and red scooters are already a familiar sight in cities like Bristol and Milton Keynes, and they are expected to bring a reliable and efficient service to Nottingham.
What to Expect
- Availability: The e-scooters are expected to be available for use starting in early Spring 2025.
- Fleet Size: Approximately 1,300 e-scooters will be deployed throughout the city.
- Parking: Around 300 designated parking locations will be set up to ensure orderly streets.
- Infrastructure: The council has installed 275 new racks for e-scooters and e-bikes, and has audited and reviewed previous parking spots to ensure they meet the latest standards.
- Service Area: The e-scooters will be restricted to Nottingham’s city limits and will not operate outside of designated areas.
- Operational Zones: The council can implement ‘low-speed’ or ‘no-go’ zones for added safety.
Pricing and Accessibility
The pricing structure for the e-scooter service is designed to be both flexible and affordable, catering to a wide range of users.
Pay-as-you-go
- Cost: The e-scooters will be priced at 29p per minute with no unlock fee.
- Flexibility: This option is perfect for short trips and occasional users.
Discounted Passes
- Monthly Pass: A £2.99 monthly pass will be available for unlimited £2 rides, providing a cost-effective solution for frequent users.
- Special Discounts: Discounts will be offered to NHS workers, students, and people on low incomes, ensuring that the service is accessible to all members of the community.
Safety Measures
Safety is a top priority for both Nottingham City Council and Dott, with various measures being put in place to ensure the well-being of riders and pedestrians alike.
Rider Training
- Mandatory Quiz: First-time riders will be required to complete a mandatory onboarding quiz to test their knowledge of traffic rules and safe riding practices.
- App Tutorials: The Dott app will provide tutorials on how to use the e-scooters safely, and the proper way to park them.
- Beginner’s Mode: A beginner’s mode will be available for the first three rides, which will limit the speed of the scooters, allowing new users to gain experience and confidence.
- In-Person Training: Dott will also offer regular in-person training events, led by trained experts, for those who prefer a more hands-on approach to learning.
Technology and Enforcement
- Geofencing: The e-scooters will be equipped with technology to prevent them from operating outside of the designated city limits, ensuring that they stay within the permitted areas.
- Speed Restrictions: The council will have the ability to create ‘low-speed’ and ‘no-go’ zones in specific areas of the city, further enhancing safety in pedestrian-heavy locations.
- User Disciplinary Process: Riders found breaking the rules will be subject to fines.
- 24/7 Customer Support: Users will have access to round-the-clock customer support via in-app reporting, chatbots, email, social media, and a free phone number.
Addressing Past Issues
The return of e-scooters to Nottingham comes with lessons learned from previous trials. The council has taken steps to address concerns that were raised, particularly regarding parking and safety.
Parking Improvements
- Audited Locations: All previous e-scooter parking spots have been audited, and any that didn’t meet the council’s parking criteria have been deactivated.
- New Racks: The installation of 275 new e-scooter and e-bike racks will ensure that there is plenty of designated parking.
A Sustainable Transport Solution
The e-scooter scheme aligns with Nottingham’s commitment to promoting greener travel and improving air quality. By offering a convenient, affordable, and sustainable alternative to car journeys, e-scooters are expected to play a key role in easing congestion and lowering harmful emissions in the city.
E-Scooter Usage
- Permitted Areas: E-scooters can be used on roads, cycle lanes, carriageways, and other areas where cycling is permitted, but they are not allowed on pavements.
- Rider Requirements: Anyone wanting to hire an e-scooter must be over 18 years old and hold at least a provisional driving license.
Concerns from the National Federation of the Blind
While the relaunch of the e-scooter service is welcomed by many, it has also raised concerns from some organizations, including the National Federation of the Blind (NFBUK).
Safety Concerns
- Anti-Social Behavior: NFBUK has expressed worry that the reintroduction of e-scooters will bring danger and anti-social behavior to the pavements of the city.
- Vulnerable Pedestrians: The charity has argued that no matter how many controls or restrictions are placed on e-scooters, they will not be ridden or left in a way that is safe for vulnerable pedestrians, creating fear, anxiety, and danger for the blind, deaf-blind, and partially sighted.
Response
Despite these concerns, Nottingham City Council and Dott have emphasized their commitment to ensuring the safety of all residents, including those with visual impairments. The implemented safety measures, including training, technology, and enforcement, are designed to mitigate the risks and provide a safe and reliable service for everyone.
Looking Ahead
The e-scooter trial in Nottingham is set to continue until May 2026, providing a valuable opportunity to assess the long-term viability of e-scooters as a mode of urban transportation. The data collected from the trial, coupled with feedback from users and residents, will help inform future decisions regarding the integration of e-scooters into the city’s transportation network.
The partnership between Nottingham City Council and Dott represents a positive step forward in the city’s efforts to provide sustainable, efficient, and convenient transportation options for all, and the city looks forward to a successful relaunch of the e-scooter service this spring.
