Brighton and Hove’s award-winning bike share scheme, BTN BikeShare, celebrates a year of success with better than anticipated usage figures and multiple scheme expansions.
SINCE its launch on September 1, 2017, 53,591 BTN BikeShare users have made 347,234 trips across the city, collectively riding for a total of 680,624 miles – the equivalent distance of 27 trips around the world.
In response to user demand, the Brighton & Hove City Council and Coast to Capital funded scheme expanded its boundaries to the east and west, opening several new docking stations including at King Alfred leisure centre and Hove Lagoon.
Further expansion is planned for later in the year following the arrival of an additional 120 new bikes, making it easier for more users to get riding.
Based on user figures, the scheme is believed to be one of the country’s best-performing bike share scheme outside of London, becoming a staple for residents and visitors alike.
BTN BikeShare aims to encourage an active and healthy lifestyle and provide a sustainable, environmentally friendly mode of transport.
One BTN BikeShare user, Martin, said: “I get to explore places I’ve not been before, despite living here for 16 years! I’ve used the scheme since day one – I love that it promotes sustainable transport by encouraging more people to cycle.”
Another Brighton bike share enthusiast, Marilena, added: “It’s so easy. I no longer have to worry about my bike being stolen or breaking down. And it’s social – my wife and I love going on bike rides together.”
Tim Caswell, owner of Hourbike, the company operating the scheme, said: “Community is at the heart of the bike share scheme and we’re delighted that it has been fully embraced by the people of Brighton and Hove. It’s been brilliant watching locals and visitors support the bikes, choosing to cycle as a healthy and sustainable way to get around the city. We’re excited for the scheme to grow and look forward to celebrating many more birthdays!”
Chair of the Council’s Environment, Transport and Sustainability Committee, Cllr Gill Mitchell, said: “It’s great to see the popularity of the bike share scheme which means it can expand to benefit more people in more places. We’re hoping to encourage even more people to try cycling during Cycle September and enjoy a sustainable and healthy way of getting around the city.”
BTN BikeShare will be celebrating its birthday at a free bike breakfast and networking event, hosted by Love to Ride for the launch of Cycle September.
Join them and other local businesses on Thursday, September 6 from 8 to 10am at The Meeting Place Café on Brighton seafront – and nab some birthday cake to take back to the office.
