A UK government-backed e-scooter trial in Coventry has been paused after concerns that some users have been riding the scooters on pavements.
With 5,000 rides taken in the first few days of operation, a number of incidents were reported over the weekend where e-scooters have been used in pedestrianised areas where they are not permitted.
As a result, the Coventry City Council and appointed trial operator Voi have taken the decision to pause the scheme in order to review the first few days of the trial and identify ways in which it can re-commence in an appropriate manner.
A council spokesperson said: “The trial has been introduced to identify the safest way that e-scooters can be used going forward so it’s right to pause the scheme if concerns are being raised.
“The initial take-up has been encouraging but we need to ensure that the safety of all people using the city centre is protected and that the e-scooters are used in the proper way, hence our decision to pause the pilot until systems are improved.”
The trial was to take place in Coventry city centre, Coventry University campus and at the University of Warwick.
