Dott will expand its e-scooter services into the Bristol and Bath Railway Path, introducing 30 virtual parking spots and adding 50 scooters to Bath's fleet.

For the first time, e-bike and e-scooter operator Dott will be expanding into a section of the historic Bristol and Bath Railway Path between Bitton, Emersons Green, and Temple Mead, along with Concorde Way to Ashley Down.

The operating area in Bath will also be expanded as far south as Southdown, Odd Down, and Combe Down.

To meet the new demand, 30 new virtual parking locations will be added, as well as an extra 50 vehicles to Bath’s existing fleet.

It follows after similar expansions in South Gloucestershire earlier this year, and the start of 24-hour rentals, which have been well received by users.

Helen Godwin, Mayor of the West of England, said: “Following expansions in South Gloucestershire this summer, more people in more of Bath now have the opportunity to use an e-bike or e-scooter to make shorter, sustainable journeys.

“As I have said before, convenient travel for some should not inconvenience others particularly where people share space. That’s why our combined authority is working with councils to roll out more marked parking areas to keep things tidy and, through our Scoot Safe campaign, raise awareness of the need for responsible riding and parking to keep riders – and others – safe.

“With enforcement from operator Dott, the introduction of fines for poor parking has improved parking standards significantly. Coupled with easier ways for people to report issues and bans for users who engage in two-up riding, we’re working to strike a better balance for everyone.”

Councillor Joel Hirst, Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Cabinet Member for Sustainable Transport Strategy, said: “The council is committed to give residents better travel choices.

“For a lot of our residents journeys by e-bikes and e-scooters, which help reduce congestion and emissions, are already a part of their day-to-day lives. We’re now expanding the trial area into the south of Bath, offer more travel choice and giving even more residents access to make their journeys shorter, more convenient and sustainable.

“We’re also pleased to be introducing 30 new virtual parking locations which will help keep our streets neat and tidy. For many this option provides a cheaper alternate to the car and the bus with greater flexibility.”

Iqbal Ahmed, Head of Public Policy UK/Ireland at Dott, added: “Our mission to make sustainable transport simple and accessible for everyone, while reducing congestion and emissions.

“By increasing coverage in South Bath and opening up more routes in Bristol, Dott continues its commitment to support local mobility needs but always with respect for the safety and needs of both riders and non-riders alike.”

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