There’s been “a significant rise in vandalism over recent weeks” and there
are “379 bikes out on the network and 564 awaiting repair/maintenance.” says Transport for Greater Manchester as it gives an update on its under fire bike hire scheme
The scheme which launched in November 2021, has continued to grow in popularity, with 62,563 active users, up from less than 40,000 at the start of the year.
On Friday it reached a major milestone when ridership surpassed 1 million kilometres cycled, with usage around three times higher than expected throughout May.
Following a meeting between Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM), Greater Manchester Police (GMP), Beryl, Active Travel Commissioner for Greater Manchester Dame Sarah Storey and Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham, several steps have been agreed to increase availability, including that the scheme joind the TravelSafe Partnership (TSP).
Made up of TfGM, GMP, operators and other agencies, the TSP works collaboratively and takes an enforcement, engagement and education-led approach to tackling crime and antisocial behaviour. Targeted enforcement is planned against those involved in criminal activity.
TfGM and Beryl are to review the penalties given to users who misuse the scheme by not returning bikes to designated areas, or who leave them unlocked after use.
They will also Re-allocate bikes, from low usage areas to those with high ridership.
In a joint statement, TfGM’s Cycling and Walking Director Richard Nickson, GMP’s Chief Superintendent Mark Dexter and Beryl’s CEO Phil Ellis, said:
“The cycle hire scheme is a key part of the Bee Network – Greater Manchester’s vision for a truly integrated ‘London-style’ network – and we are extremely proud of how it has been received in Greater Manchester, with the vast majority of people using it respectfully and exactly as intended.
“Unfortunately, a small minority have wilfully and maliciously damaged bikes over recent weeks. This has meant there has been fewer than normal available for hire, and we’re sorry to anyone who has not been able get one when needed.
“We will not tolerate this type of behaviour and are working closely together to increase availability of bikes and prevent and deter criminality.
“The public can play their part too. You can be our eyes and ears and help us by reporting any misuse of the scheme.
“We want residents and visitors to have a safe and reliable experience and would reassure everybody that we are resolute in our commitment to ensuring its continued success and are taking steps to target those seeking to undermine the scheme.”
Users of the scheme are being asked to help ensure bikes remain available by returning them to a stand – or leaving them in an area next to a stand if one is not available – and ensuring they are properly locked after use (front and rear locks if parked in a stand or rear lock if parked in an overflow).
Users can report un-returned bikes in confidence to Beryl in the App chat or by contacting support@beryl.cc. For criminal incidents, including theft and vandalism, people can report incidents quickly and discreetly to a live GMP call handler, from your smartphone, using the LiveChat service or by calling 101.
