Southampton cycle lane e-scooter trial set to stay

Legislation allowing the use of e-scooters in Southampton’s bike lanes looks set to be made permanent by Southampton City Council.

Since 3 March 2021, the Experimental Traffic Regulation Order (ETRO) has allowed the use of Voi-brand E-scooters in cycle lanes. It was due to expire on 13 September.

The council has now decided to remove the ‘experimental’, making it a permanent Traffic Regulation Order. This opens the door for the city to continue its Voi e-scooter scheme, as the legislation does not apply to privately-owned e-scooters.

This is partly because the Voi e-scooters available under the scheme are limited to 12.5 mph, whereas privately-owned scooters can reach speeds far exceeding this. The scheme is only open to over-18s who hold a full or provisional driving licence with a "Q" category entitlement.

At a meeting last week, the council voted to unanimously pass the order, despite 72 objections from residents.

Read more - Oxford extends Voi e-scooter trial