The Beam e-scooter trial scheme, currently underway in Springfield Central and the surrounding areas, is set to continue its operations for another six months.
The extension of the pilot program, aimed at gathering additional data to assess the long-term feasibility of micro-mobility services, will run until July 2024. This trial period is poised to offer valuable insights into whether e-scooters could become a permanent and advantageous mode of transportation for residents and visitors alike.
Beam has been entrusted to operate up to 125 e-scooters within Springfield Central, Springfield Lakes, and Spring Mountain throughout the trial’s duration.
Growth, Infrastructure, and Waste Committee Chair, Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding has reported that e-scooters have been met with enthusiasm by Springfield Central residents during the initial six-month trial period, which commenced on 1 July 2023.
“More than 3,000 users have embraced e-scooters during the trial’s course, showcasing the rapid adoption of this eco-friendly mode of transport,” Mayor Harding stated.
“Collectively, scooter users have covered a distance of 30,000 kilometres so far this year, highlighting the potential impact of micro-mobility in facilitating suburban transportation, especially for ‘last mile’ connectivity to and from public transport hubs, workplaces, and educational institutions.”
Ipswich residents have collectively spent over 3,000 hours on e-scooters since its launch. Andrew Dodd, Beam’s Regional Operations Manager, expressed satisfaction with the progress of the Ipswich trial and emphasised the continued collection of data over the upcoming months.
“The data gathered thus far underscores the enormous potential of shared micro-mobility in connecting Ipswich residents and visitors while reducing the need for car trips,” Mr Dodd said.
“We have maintained regular communication with the council to address community concerns and implement changes that benefit both users and residents. We are delighted to see the trial extended for an additional six months and look forward to further collaboration with Ipswich City Council and the Springfield Central community in advancing micro-mobility.”
Residents can share their feedback on the extended trial via Shape Your Ipswich.
Published 2-Jan-2024
