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Agenda item

Agenda item

Proposed Portsmouth Bike Share Scheme

 

Following the update on Solent Future Transport Zone provided at Traffic and Transportation Cabinet Meeting in October 2020, this report provides further information to enable Portsmouth City Council to progress to launch a bike share rental scheme in summer 2022, funded through the Solent Future Transport Zone (FTZ).

 

It is recommended that the Cabinet Member for Traffic and Transportation:

 

(i)             Notes the progress made in developing a bike share rental scheme; and

 

(ii)           Approves Portsmouth City Council launching a bike share rental scheme this summer 2022, operated by Beryl, as Portsmouth’s sole bike share rental operator for the contract’s initial term until 30th June 2024, pursuant to a call-off contract under the Framework Agreement for the Provision of Shared Bike Rental and Associated Micromobility Services - Solent Region.

Decision:

DECISIONS

Cabinet Member for Traffic & Transportation:

 

1.    Noted the progress made in developing a bike share rental scheme and

 

2.    Approved Portsmouth City Council launching a bike share rental scheme this Summer 2022, operated by Beryl, as Portsmouth's sole bike share rental operator for the contract's initial term until 30 June 2024, pursuant to a call-off contract under the Framework Agreement for the Provision of Shared Bike Rental and Associated Micromobility Services - Solent Region.

 

Minutes:

Gareth James, Future Transport Zones (FTZ) Project Manager introduced the report and in response to questions explained that the provisional prices for pay as you ride price bundles would be for bicycles £1 unlock fee with 5p/ minute hire and for e-bicycles £1.50 unlock fee with 10p/ minute hire. 

 

It is hoped that the scheme would start in late August or September.  The sites have been identified and the list will be taken through the officers' group, the FTZ Board and out to consultation.

 

The process for identifying sites would be much the same as for scooters.

 

Cycling safety is as paramount to Beryl as it is to the council, and he is sure that they would be happy to promote the council's near-miss tool if they do not have their own.  If they do have their own, the council will ensure that all the information comes together. 

 

A core part of the tender was that the provider must share all the data (anonymised) so that transport planning colleagues can use it to help with safety, parking provision etc.  The information gathered will look at many things that could contribute to an increase in cycling e.g. the number of users who did not cycle prior to hiring a bicycle, those who have their own bike but also hire one for travel. However, it will not necessarily establish a direct link

 

It is paramount for the council and Solent Transport that the scheme can continue after the trial.  The first two years for a bike share provider are often hard because of the set-up costs.  The council is committed to ensuring that the business model is sustainable. 

 

A Voi e-scooter rental costs £1 to unlock with 20p/ minute to hire.  An e-bike is broadly similar, whereas pedal bicycles are cheaper.

 

Beryl will provide training on similar lines as Voi.  The university is keen to have training for its students, particularly freshers.  As soon as details are available, they will be shared.

 

Helmets are not mandatory but will be strongly recommended and encouraged.  Free helmets will be given away at events.  Beryl will work with the council's communication team and Solent Transport regarding media campaigns to remind people to wear helmets and be visible.  They want to make it as safe as possible for users and non-users.

 

Feedback is always welcome from stakeholders, especially the Portsmouth Cycle Forum.

 

Beryl won the tenders to operate in all three areas across the Solent: Portsmouth, Southampton and on the Isle of Wight.

 

Councillor Scott Payter-Harris was happy that there will be joint docking stations to provide people with a choice of transport.  He noted that the data collected on which methods prove more popular in different areas could shape the transport strategy.

 

Councillor Lynne Stagg was pleased to note that there will be docking stations which are more suitable for the city's narrow roads.

 

 

 

 

 

 

DECISIONS
Cabinet Member for Traffic & Transportation:

1.    Noted the progress made in developing a bike share rental scheme and

2.    Approved Portsmouth City Council launching a bike share renal scheme this Summer 2022, operated by Beryl, as Portsmouth's sole bike share rental operator for the contract's initial term until 30 June 2024, pursuant to a call-off contract under the Framework Agreement for the Provision of Shared Bike Rental and Associated Micromobility Services - Solent Region.

 

Supporting documents: