Evaluating the trial of e-bikes in Lake Macquarie

Shared e-bikes could become a permanent fixture on streets and cycleways in Lake Mac, with Council seeking feedback to help decide if a trial of the service will continue beyond June.

Global micro-mobility company Beam began a 12-month trial of a shared e-bike scheme in Lake Macquarie in June 2022. Now, with the trial drawing to a close, Council is inviting the community to share their views on the service.

Manager Community Partnerships Andrew Bryant said Council was keen to hear from the whole community.

“Whether you’re a frequent e-bike rider or have just been curious about the purple e-bikes you’ve seen across the city, we want to make sure we gather a range of opinions and perspectives as we consider the outcomes of this trial,” Mr Bryant said.

“We know mobility and accessibility are important issues for our community and we are always on the lookout for new and innovative ways to help our residents and visitors to Lake Mac get around and explore our city.

“Shared mobility schemes like this could play an important role in our overall transport mix, helping people get to work, school or visit local businesses, while providing an economic boost to the city.”

A survey is now open at shape.lakemac.com.au/ebike-trial where the community can have their say about the e-bike sharing scheme trial in Lake Macquarie.

Feedback is open until Sunday 16 April 2023.

Survey results will form part of Council’s evaluation of the 12-month trial, and help determine whether shared e-bikes should be available in Lake Macquarie and how a future scheme can be of most value to the community.

Alongside e-bikes, Beam are also operating an e-scooter sharing scheme in Lake Macquarie, however, this are part of a wider NSW Government trial and will be assessed separately to the currently evaluation work being undertaken by Council.

For more information on Beam’s operations in Lake Macquarie, visit lakemac.com.au.