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Pop-up education session scheduled ahead of Albany e-scooter trials

Stuart McGuckinAlbany Advertiser
Lessons on how to use e-scooters will start soon in Albany.
Camera IconLessons on how to use e-scooters will start soon in Albany. Credit: Jessica Moroney/Geraldton Guardi/RegionalHUB

Albany’s first shared e-scooter trials are drawing closer, with the City of Albany set to host a safety pop-up next week alongside Beam Mobility and Bird Rides to teach people how to ride the shared mobility vehicles.

Last month, Albany councillors gave the green light for permits to be granted to the two companies for 12-month trials.

Part of the extensive list of conditions for the trials was for the companies to hold training sessions as well as gather community feedback to inform the deployment of e-scooters.

Beam general manager Tom Cooper said he was thrilled to partner with the city to “deliver Albany’s first shared micromobility operations”.

He said the company was looking forward to engaging with the community to ensure the safety of riders, pedestrians and road users.

“As the largest shared micromobility operator in WA, we look forward to working collaboratively with local businesses, local council and the community to bring our safe, affordable and sustainable e-scooters to both residents and visitors,” he said.

“As we prepare to commence our operations in Albany, we are also committed to developing collaborative partnerships with local community members and organisations and engage in discussions around the safe operation of e-scooters.”

The company expects to launch its 200 e-scooters ahead of summer once the city grants final approval of its plans, which will be developed based on community feedback.

“We know that bringing a new mode of transport to the streets brings change for everyone — pedestrians, drivers and the broader community,” Mr Cooper said.

“We have the experience in community engagement, technology and safety education to make this trial in Albany a successful one and thank the City of Albany for their trust in us to deliver.”

The session will run from 4.30 to 7pm on October 20 at Retravision Stadium.

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