We are delighted to announce that from 25th March 2021, Zwings’ e-scooters will be available for rental via our new mobile app from parking bays located across Chard and Crewkerne. This launch follows the success of the transport service we have been operating in Yeovil since October 2020, in partnership with South Somerset District Council, and as part of the DfT-authorised e-scooter trials taking place nationwide.
We intend to provide a sustainable, convenient and socially-distant mode of travel for both residents and visitors alike (60% of car trips are between 1-3 miles, the majority of which are made by the driver alone). Following the declaration of a local climate emergency, South Somerset District Council and Zwings are delivering a service designed to reduce unnecessary car usage, thereby lowering carbon emissions, toxic air pollution and easing congestion.
The already-successful Yeovil e-scooter trial scheme is testament that there is a need for alternative sustainable transport choices to replace short, about town, solo car journeys. It goes without saying that less cars are beneficial for everyone, helping reduce congestion, parking and pollution, and with e-scooting there is the added bonus of being in the fresh open air, which is great for well-being.
We have worked closely with Crewkerne and Chard councillors and key stakeholders, whose valuable input, local knowledge and positive approach has helped to bring the scheme to fruition with micro-mobility operators Zwings, to safely deliver this innovative, sustainable transport choice to residents, visitors and employees of Chard and Crewkerne and we hope they embrace the scheme and all the benefits it will bring.
SSDC Portfolio Holder for Environment, Councillor Sarah Dyke
CHARD AND CREWKERNE OPERATING ZONES
We encourage riders to commit to safe riding practices and help ensure safe streets for everyone. To ride safely, please observe a few simple rules below:
- Wear a helmet while riding
- Remain visible
- Abide by all traffic laws and speed limits
- Ride only within designated areas such as roads and cycle lanes
- Park properly in specially designated parking bays
- Be aware of cars, pedestrians and fellow riders
We recognise that both Chard and Crewkerne are key towns in South Somerset, and our local and head office teams are thrilled to be introducing e-scooters into both locations to complement our successful operation in Yeovil. We have now proven that there’s a real appetite for convenient and sustainable micro-mobility across South Somerset. The Zwings team has enjoyed forming a close partnership with South Somerset District Council and local stakeholders to help the community transition towards car alternatives that allow for social distancing, and reimagine the way they travel from A to B.
The first few months of our launch will be crucial to gain an understanding of the community’s response, and we will continually seek to improve our service in order to best suit localised needs, including those of vulnerable groups and the police, with whom we are working closely.
Joe Lewin, Zwings CEO
HOW TO USE THE NEW ZWINGS E-SCOOTERS?
To use Zwings, you should simply download the app, create an account, locate an e-scooter on the map, and unlock it with the tap of a button. Riders can finish their rides by parking their e-scooters neatly in any of the designated parking bays. Riding on Zwings will cost £1 to unlock and 15p per minute. Local Zwings teams undertake maintenance, recharging, sanitisation and rebalancing of the fleet in the towns.
Learn more about Zwings’ riding zones and why you shouldn’t ride on the pavements, follow our blog’s updates, and download the Zwings app to take an electric scooter ride today.
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