E-bike hire scheme set for three-year trial in Hemel Hempstead
An e-bike hire scheme looks set to be introduced in Hemel Hempstead on a three-year trial.
A Dacorum Borough Council report prepared on behalf of Cllr Adrian England, portfolio holder for place, outlined plans for the scheme ahead of a behind-closed-doors section of a committee meeting on January 13.
The project will be funded through the council’s Community Infrastructure Levy pot, which is paid into by developers as a contribution to infrastructure in the area.
Assuming the scheme is signed off by the council’s Liberal Democrat cabinet next month, it will then go out to tender to find a provider who can run the service.
The aim is for the scheme to run for an initial trial period of three years, with the option of extending for a further two years.
A council report said making e-bikes available for hire would help reduce carbon emissions, cut congestion and improve health and wellbeing.
The report said: “Currently, in Hemel Hempstead, travelling between locations within the town is very challenging without the use of a private car due to poor public transport connectivity and the location of the rail stations.”
The council is aiming for 40 per cent of journeys within Hemel Hempstead to be made using active and sustainable modes of transport.
Similar e-bike hire schemes already operate elsewhere in Hertfordshire, including in Watford, Hertsmere, Three Rivers and Stevenage.
A council report added: “Depending on the success of the scheme and availability of funding, it may be extended and/or expanded into other areas of the borough and adjoining areas.”
The report also said the council may “explore” funding from the Government or county council for the scheme, as well as looking into sponsorship from local businesses after it is up and running.