In the first month since the launch of Beryl electric assisted bikes in Dorchester, Portland and Weymouth on 20 August 2024, riders have collectively covered an impressive 27,000 kilometres.
Over 5,000 journeys were taken in the first month, with the average journey being just under 5km. Many people also enjoyed longer trips from Weymouth to Dorchester and return.
Cllr Jon Andrews, Cabinet Member for Place Services at Dorset Council, expressed his delight with the take-up. He said: “I’m thrilled to see such enthusiasm for our new Beryl e-bikes. The scheme has exceeded all our expectations and proved a big hit with locals and visitors.
“They’re a great boost for the area and benefit the environment by offering a viable alternative for travelling around.
“I’m delighted so many people have been getting out and about and, with the added benefit of the electric boost, riders are going further afield to enjoy Dorset by bike.”
The scheme has generated nearly 3,000 hours of physical activity so far and, according to industry calculations, the first month alone saved half a tonne of carbon emissions.
Cllr Nick Ireland, Leader of Dorset Council, said: “It’s fantastic news that over 27,000 kilometres have already been covered by Beryl e-bike riders in the first month.
“As a council, we’re committed to helping make our county more climate and nature friendly. And schemes like this are a great way of driving down our carbon footprint. They also offer residents and visitors an excellent opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature.”
Beryl CEO, Phil Ellis, said: “We’re delighted with the impact our Weymouth, Dorchester and Portland scheme has had in its first few weeks, with hundreds of people across the three areas already choosing to give shared sustainable transport a try.
“We’ll continue to work with our partner, Dorset Council and listen to feedback from riders and stakeholders to help keep the scheme as fun, accessible and easy-to-use as possible.
“By doing this, we hope to continue having a positive impact on reducing traffic congestion and harmful carbon emissions while improving air quality and public health.”
Looking ahead
The bikes are equipped with front and rear lights, ensuring they can be used as the days get shorter. Riders are recommended to wear bright clothing to improve their visibility.
There are plans for more bays in Weymouth and Dorchester, enabling more places to start and finish hires, and offering more options for commuters. Keep an eye on publicity over the coming months.
Reporting bike misuse
Despite some reports, there has been very little misuse of the bikes. However, Beryl encourages people to report any instances or misuse, or bikes left outside designated bays. If you spot anything out of the ordinary, please contact Beryl via their website at beryl.cc/contact
Alternatively, send Beryl an email at [email protected]. It will help Beryl if you can give them the bike number and any reference points that will help them to retrieve the vehicle.
All bike users are registered so Beryl HQ will follow up all incidents.
About the Beryl Dorset e-bike scheme
Operated by UK-based shared sustainable transport providers, Beryl, in partnership with Dorset Council, the scheme comprises 121 e-bikes available to hire from a network of 30 Beryl bays across Weymouth, Dorchester and Portland.
Standard Beryl bikes and Beryl e-bikes can be hired in the east of Dorset and around the UK.
Users can pay for their journeys in a variety of ways to suit individual needs and circumstances, with Pay-As-You-Ride, Minute Bundle and various pass options.
The Beryl app is available for free download on the App Store for iOS and the Google Play Store for Android users, ensuring a seamless experience for all.
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