E-bike hire scheme launches in city in county first

More than 100 e-bikes have been rolled out in a Kent city as part of the county's first public bike hire service.

Canterbury City Council has launched its first Beryl bike hire scheme in locations across the area including Burgate and St Radigund's Street.

The scheme, which has previously been rolled out in other cities such as Brighton, will offer a "more active and enjoyable form of transport", according to the council's transport lead.

Councillor Alex Ricketts said: "It's an idea that people have suggested to me on a regular basis, and these particular bikes will really help to link up different parts of the city for locals and visitors alike."

Phil Ellis, chief executive of Beryl, said: "Whether you are a commuter, student, or tourist, these e-bikes are the perfect way to travel and explore Canterbury."

Under the scheme, users can rent bikes through a Beryl app, paying to use the bike by the minute.

The bikes are placed in sites across the city, and riders start and end their journeys in each site.

Canterbury City Council said it is funding the scheme through developer contributions and government Levelling Up funding.

It is hoped the scheme will later be rolled out to other locations, including Wincheap and outside the Kent and Canterbury Hospital.

Follow BBC Kent on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.