4 days ago
Rental e-scooters are removed from Basildon's streets after years of complaints
CONTROVERSIAL e-scooters have been removed from the streets of Basildonafter years of complaints.
E-scooters provided by firm Dott had been available to rent via an app since 2020 as part of the council's efforts to improve sustainable public transport.
While their removal has largely been welcomed by Basildon residents, some have criticised the ending of the trial as 'a knee jerk decision'.
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Decision - Basildon Council voted to end the trial at a meeting earlier this year (Image: Google Maps)
Following a vote to end the trial earlier this year, a spokesperson for Basildon Council has now confirmed that Dott staff visited the town over the weekend to remove the vehicles.
The scheme has attracted criticism since being launched, with many residents and councillors claiming the scooters were often ridden and parked inappropriately.
'The e-scooter trial could have been a fantastic initiative rolled out to support people to be able to reduce their reliance on cars for shorter journeys and to get out more,' said Basildon resident and The Childcare Guide founder, Larissa Hazell.
'However, due to users' use of them, it has failed.
Hazards - The scooters were regularly left dumped around Basildon (Image: Newsquest) 'In the years since the trial was launched, I have only seen a few scooters considerately parked – most of the time they have been dumped on the pavement, causing an obstruction and danger to those using wheelchairs, buggies and those with visual impairment.
'Many users have been riding them dangerously as well, leaving drivers and pedestrians unsure of where the e-scooter rider is going.'
Ms Hazell added that while she understand why some riders may be disappointed by the e-scooters' removal, she believes 'they only have themselves to blame'.
When Basildon Council announced its decision not to continue the rental scheme, the risks posed to both pedestrians and riders were cited as an important factor. The discarding of the scooters on pavements and footpaths also raised concerns, particularly for those with disabilities or additional needs.
Resident Guy Heather said:'I think it's a shame that the council have made such a short-sighted, knee jerk decision to cancel the e-scooter scheme.'
'They should have worked with the scooter operator to improve things rather than lazily chucking the whole thing in the bin. The council would do well to embrace modern, green initiatives like this.'
A spokesperson for Dott said: "As the trial in Basildon has now officially ended, our team has removed the vehicles from the area.
"We remain committed to collaborating with local authorities to promote safe and sustainable transport solutions in the future."
