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Derby’s e-bike scheme is to close, as a recent surge of “unprecedented” vandalism and increasing costs have made it “commercially unviable for the operator”.
The scheme was introduced at the end of June 2018 and since launch has seen over 7,000 riders travel 150,000 miles in total.
Tim Caswell, owner and managing director of Hourbike, said: “It’s with great regret that the e-bikes Derby electric bike-share scheme has to close. Until spring this year, the scheme had been incredibly popular and successful with students, commuters and residents across Derby.
“However, after the recent spate of intensive and aggressive vandalism targeting our e-bikes, Hourbike cannot financially afford to sustain the scheme going forward, the costs of repair are too significant. We would like to extend a big thank you to the people and businesses of Derby who made the scheme such a success.”
Councillor Matthew Holmes, deputy leader and cabinet member for regeneration, planning and transportation, added: “This decision, unfortunately, means that, at the present time, there will no longer be a cycle scheme provision in Derby.
“I’m extremely disappointed that such a successful scheme with high demand has had to close. However, Derby City Council is committed to a scheme of this type that encourages more people to cycle and be active, which in turn improves the quality of air in our city and reduces congestion.
“Moving forward in the short term, we will continue to work with our partner, the University of Derby, to review lessons learnt from the e-bike scheme. Alongside this, we are already starting the process of investigating and considering all possible options for a bigger and more ambitious scheme to be launched in the future.”
