Beryl to deliver shared transport services across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole until 2028

Credit: Beryl

Beryl, the operator behind the current bike, e-bike, and e-scooter scheme in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP), has announced that it has been re-appointed by the BCP Council to continue managing the sustainable shared transport initiative until 2028. Over the past four and a half years, the scheme has facilitated more than 1,827,000 rides, covering nearly 6.4 million kilometres.

The upcoming five years will witness significant enhancements to the programme, with the integration of e-cargo bikes scheduled for spring 2024. This move will make the scheme the first in the UK to offer four integrated modes of shared transport. Furthermore, additional e-bikes will be introduced to the streets to improve functionality, cost-effectiveness and convenience based on user feedback.

The scheme has already made a considerable impact by reducing traffic congestion, replacing over 650,000 private vehicle journeys and preventing around 235 tonnes of CO2 emissions across the region.

Beryl’s CEO and Co-founder, Phil Ellis, said: “Over the next [four] years, we will utilise the knowledge and experience we have gained to deliver some significant improvements, which will help make the scheme even more user-friendly and hopefully encourage an even greater take up of sustainable transport habits.”

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Furthermore, Beryl has also demonstrated a commitment to community welfare by providing over 180,000 free rides to various groups, including job seekers, students and low-income hospitality workers.

The 2023 annual Rider Report, based on a survey of over 600 riders in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, revealed positive trends. Approximately 43% of cyclists reported cycling more often since using Beryl, and 34% had reduced their car usage. The report highlighted the scheme’s impact on lapsed cyclists, with 16% returning to cycling after a short break (one to five years) and 17% after a break of more than five years.

The BCP Council expressed satisfaction with Beryl’s performance, acknowledging the operator’s role in promoting sustainable travel, providing reliable services and supporting community initiatives. The partnership aims to further innovate and promote sustainable transport habits over the extended contract period.