Electric bike scheme to launch in March using Clean Air Zone penalties - 'Convenient option'

The council has awarded the contract to Beryl, a private company that already runs shared bike schemes in other parts of the UK.

The scheme will allow residents and visitors to hire electric bikes from docking stations across the city for short journeys, commuting and leisure trips.

Council leaders explained the project aims to cut car use, improve air quality and encourage people to be more active.

The e-bikes will be placed at key locations including Bradford Interchange, Forster Square Station, universities and colleges, hospitals and major cycle routes, connecting Bradford with Leeds, Shipley, Saltaire and West Bradford.

The council said the electric bikes are designed to make cycling easier, especially in hilly areas or for people who may find traditional cycling difficult.

Users will be able to pick up a bike from one docking station and return it to another nearby, with installations set to begin in early 2026.

From January, the council will begin speaking to local residents and businesses about where the docking points should be placed.

The project will be funded using money from the city's Clean Air Zone, which charges more polluting petrol and diesel vehicles.

The council explained that the funding is ring-fenced and will not take money away from other council services.

Beryl will share the financial and operational risks of running the scheme, with usage data being used to decide whether changes or expansion are needed in the future.

Sarah Ferriby, the authority's executive member for healthy people and places, said: "The e-bike share scheme will give residents and visitors a convenient and simple option for travelling around Bradford.

"Making cycling more accessible helps people stay active while also reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality."

She added that the project supports the council's wider plans to create a healthier and cleaner city and is part of Bradford’s Climate Action Plan.

Beryl's chief executive, Philip Ellis, said the company was pleased to be working with Bradford Council. He said shared e-bike schemes had already changed how people travel in other towns and cities and could help make everyday journeys easier and quicker.

He noted that Beryl would work with the local community to make sure the scheme meets local needs and fits into Bradford's existing transport network.

The council stated that discounts and incentives will be offered to make the scheme affordable and encourage people to try the bikes. Full details on pricing and how the scheme will work are expected closer to the launch date.

E-bike schemes have become more common across the UK, though some have faced criticism over cost, low usage and the impact on streets and pavements.

Supporters argued that the bikes will reduce congestion and provide a cleaner alternative to car journeys.