A wider range of young people will now be able to ride e-scooters in and around Cheltenham and Gloucester, as scooter provider, Voi, has announced a reduction to the age limit — from 18 to 16 years old.
In a move to 'encourage more active lifestyles, reduce traffic and contribute to a cleaner, greener environment', Voi has joined forces with local councils to match the age limit of the previous operator in the Cheltenham and Gloucester e-scooter trial.
There's hopes that the reduction will also help to open up new opportunities for young people of sixth form or college age to move around the city and town for education, work and leisure purposes.
Significantly, all riders must still hold a provisional or full driving license and undertake safety training via the Voi app before riding.
Voi general manager for the UK, Ireland and France, Jack Samler, said: 'I’m pleased to have worked in partnership with Gloucestershire County Council to expand access to e-scooters for younger riders in response to rider feedback.'
The news could face controversy, due to the growing safety concerns around e-scooters and rider behaviours around pedestrians and on roads.
Jack added: 'We recognise the importance of prioritising safety and have a range of measures in place to ensure the safe and responsible use of e-scooters, including online and in-person safety training, educational campaigns, enforcement measures, and ongoing campaigns to promote responsible riding behaviours.'
One of these measures sees new riders encouraged to complete safe scooter skills training, such as Voi's online Ride Safe Academy or its monthly webinars.
Voi is a Swedish micro mobility company operating in over 100 towns and cities across 12 countries. Its scooters were introduced in Cheltenham and Gloucester in August 2023.
