Newcastle's orange e-scooters will be a fixture in the city until 2024, after an extension was agreed between Neuron and Newcastle City Council.
The trial was due to end on Wednesday November 30 but will now continue for a further 18 months after Newcastle City Council and Neuron Mobility came to an agreement. Earlier today, ChronicleLive reported that a short term deal had been agreed so that the vehicles could still be hired and ridden legally in the city.
According to operator Neuron, Newcastle riders have made more than 900,00 miles in trips so far. As part of the new agreement, there will be a number of changes, including the transition to a new parking model that will introduce more than 100 designated parking stations, where riders will be required to finish their journey.
Read more: Sunderland e-scooters will stay until at least May 2024 - with a new colour
Other changes will include the introduction of new technology to better control where e-scooters are ridden and parked. And new Concession Passes, which have discounts of up to 50 percent, will be offered to enable those on low incomes to use the scooters.
Cllr Jane Byrne, cabinet member for connected, clean city at Newcastle City Council said: "We know that there have been concerns about some riders not using or parking the scooters in a safe, responsible or considerate manner and Neuron has worked closely with us, with local councillors and communities to understand and address these issues. I’m pleased that this has resulted in new arrangements that will allow people to continue to benefit from the e-scooters and also improve the experience for others.
Cormac Quinn, UK General Manager at Neuron Mobility, said: "We’re delighted to extend the rental e-scooter service to mid-2024 and we thank the council for their continued trust and support. We are really encouraged that our riders – plus an increasing number of local businesses and venues – are recognising some of the benefits rental e-scooters are bringing to the city."
The e-scooters can be hired and ridden in several areas, including Newcastle City Centre, the Quayside, Arthur's hill, Ouseburn, Byker, Elswick, Wingrove, Gosforth, Jesmond, Heaton and High Heaton. Privately owned e-scooters cannot be legally ridden on UK roads though those in various council trials across the country can be used.
That may change in the future, depending on how the hire trial goes. Sunderland has extended its trial until May 2024 - though a new operator Zwings will take Neuron's place after the company made the decision not to apply for a new e-scooter contract in the city.
How do you feel that the e-scooters will be here for another 18 months? Let us know!
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