Lime e-bikes

Many of you will have noted that Lime has been awarded the contract to provide e-bikes for use in Hobart. The Association recently received an email from Lime seeking any feedback we might have regarding the e-bikes. We see this as a positive move by Lime. They have indicated their local operations team will be available 24/7 via hobart@li.me.

You will be aware that the earlier purple e-scooters were not well received by many across the community. As such, the Association has raised the following matters with Lime as they commence their operations. We have also made these points to the Hobart City Council so they are also aware of our concerns. The Association noted as background:

• Battery Point is a highly significant historic precinct, characterised by narrow streets and pathways, and a diverse population. It is visited by tens of thousands of pedestrians each year, who enjoy experiencing the suburb on foot.

• e-Scooters did not fit well with the historic nature of the precinct. Feedback to the Association from community members and businesses was overwhelmingly against the presence of e-scooters.

• e-Scooters were particularly a menace when parked, creating potential danger and hazards to pedestrians and also making for an ugly streetscape.

• Poor rider behaviour and misuse abounded, increasing in peak tourist season.

• Residents resented having to ‘police’ their use.

The Association recommend to Lime that they take account of the previous negative experiences with e-scooters as summarised above. In particular:

• e-Bikes should not be parked in any prominent areas in Battery Point e.g. on footpaths, in verges and against fences. Lime should seek to use specific parking areas that do not impact on the heritage nature of the precinct and do not impact pedestrianism for the community and visitors.

• Inappropriate use (hooning) should be stringently enforced by the company. This should not be a matter for community members.

• Lime should continue to liaise with the Association regarding the use of e-bikes and provide prompt response to issues raised.