Voi e-scooter trial in Northampton extended until 2027 but operator told to address issues such as riding on pavements and underage use

The red e-scooters have been a regular sight around town since operator, Voi, first launched the trial in September 2020. The scooters offer residents and commuters a sustainable and affordable mode of transport, however, a number of safety concerns have been raised over the last five-and-a-half years.

As part of the trial extension, WNC has said it will continue to work with Voi to address concerns such as riding on pavements, tandem riding, and underage riding, which many feel are issues that have not been resolved fully. The council says these actions will form part of a wider roadmap to “ensure the scheme evolves in line with community expectations”.

WNC says Voi will be “held firmly to the commitments they have made to address safety concerns” and that the extension comes with “clear expectations”.

Councillor Richard Butler, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “We know the e-scooter scheme is used daily by many people as a reliable and affordable way of getting around Northampton.

“Extending the trial to 2027 ensures they can continue to travel safely and sustainably while we work with Voi to try and address the enduring concerns people have.

“Removing the scheme now, without a suitable alternative in place, could push some toward using illegal private e-scooters, which would present far greater risks.

“Crucially, this extension comes with clear expectations. Voi will be held firmly to the commitments they have made to address safety concerns, including improved parking compliance, stronger enforcement against misuse, better rider education and closer working with the council and police.

“Continued operation of the scheme depends on demonstrable improvements that make our streets safer and ensure the scheme works for all road users, not just those riding the scooters.”

A WNC spokesman added: “Public engagement carried out earlier in the trial demonstrated that many people rely on e-scooters as a primary form of transport – for work, education, and essential journeys.

“Maintaining the scheme prevents disruption to these users and supports a more sustainable transport network for the town.”

Since the scheme began, two people have died in West Northants due to incidents involving the scooters, and others have suffered injuries.

Other concerns that have continued to be raised are the policing of underage and drink-driver users, poor parking of e-scooters on public pathways, and the effectiveness of Voi’s complaints procedure and their ability to identify who is riding their scooters at any given time.

Voi is also operating in the north of the county, including in Wellingborough, Kettering, Corby, Rushden and Higham Ferrers.