For those who live too far to cycle and walk, and must drive to major conurbations, we will repurpose parking in places just outside town centres, so people can park on the outskirts and finish their journeys on foot or bike or even e-scooter
For the first time, electric scooters (referred to in the study as micromobility vehicles) will be allowed on UK public roads as part of the government's "transport revolution". Initially, e-scooters, will only be allowed in four "future transport zones" – Portsmouth and Southampton, the West of England Combined Authority (WECA), Derby and Nottingham and the West Midlands.
The consultation group, formed on 16 March 2020, has been looking the future of transport which includes the use of e-scooters and the impact they may have on UK transport. Requirements for both e-scooters, and those using them, are being explored to make sure they are safe for use on roads.
This includes a minimum age and vehicle standards as well as insurance requirements. The review will also consider if local authorities should have extra powers to manage the impacts of e-scooters on public space, for example where they can be parked.
Transport secretary Grant Shapps said: "We are on the cusp of a transport revolution. Emerging technologies are ripping up the rule book and changing the way people and goods move forever.
"Our groundbreaking future of transport programme marks the biggest review of transport laws in a generation and will pave the way for exciting new transport technology to be tested, cementing the UK's position as a world-leading innovator.
"This review will ensure we understand the potential impacts of a wide range of new transport modes such as e-scooters, helping to properly inform any decisions on legalisation. Funding these new zones across the country will also help us safely test innovative ways to get around, creating a greener future transport system for us all."
Look for an announcement on the project on 1 June.
Source: Ministry of Transport