E-scooters removed after controversial trial

E-scooters have been removed from a town after councillors said they caused significant safety concerns.

The green transport method had been trialled in Basildon, Essex, since 2020.

However, Basildon Council voted to abandon the scheme in January after one Labour member told colleagues the riders were "causing carnage".

Dott, which ran the trial, said its team collected the two-wheeled vehicles earlier this week, as first reported in the Basildon Echo.

"We remain committed to collaborating with local authorities to promote safe and sustainable transport solutions in the future," a spokesman said.

The trials were initially meant to run until October 2021, but have been extended on an annual basis.

Despite Basildon Council's decision, the trials are continuing in Chelmsford, Colchester and Braintree.

Aidan McGurran, a Labour councillor in Basildon, said it was "with some reluctance" that the authority cancelled the scheme.

"While e-scooters may offer a green transport alternative, our experience has raised significant safety concerns," he added.

"Residents and businesses have reported issues with reckless riding, especially in town centre areas, and the abandonment of scooters on pavements has created hazards."

In December, Essex County Council said the district and borough authorities could opt out of the trials if they wished.

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