We are only one step away from the e scooter trial in Canterbury! KCC has said it is waiting for the Secretary of State to sign the Traffic Order and then the trial will launch on 2 November!
“The scooters will run from Kent Uni to Christchurch, along a pre agreed route and if you try to leave that route the motor cuts out! Apparently this is because of ‘geofence technology” – I learn something every day” said Canterbury’s KCC councillor Ida Linfield. “I am assured that it will all be tightly regulated.”
There will be:
- full insurance cover for riders;
- you will need a provisional licence or a full driving licence before you can ride one;
- the e scooters will have either a bell or a horn plus lights and reflectors;
- you will be ‘encouraged’ to wear a cycle helmet – in fact the operator will be providing helmets free of charge and there will be incentives for those riders who do wear a helmet!
- you must be over 18 years old, and
- the maximum speed the scooters can go will be 15 mph, although the trial may start off with 10 mph.
“Since the summer, when I first heard of this trial, I have supported the scheme and worked with the officer at County to make local residents were kept informed every step of the way” added Ida. “Virtual meetings wil be arranged this month for Residents Associations to get all the answers to their questions.
If you know of a Residents Association that isn’t aware of these meetings, then please contact me and I’ll send you the information.
Or if you have a question please just contact me and I’ll try and get you the answer.
email: ida.linfield@kent.gov.uk
So Secretary of State, get signing!
Posted by Ida Linfield
Ida is an experienced local campaigner and a member of the Green Liberal Democrats and of the Open Space Society. She is a former councillor on both Canterbury City Council and Kent County Council.
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