🛴Basildon Bans E-Scooters Is Braintree Next?
🚫 E-Scooters Scrapped in Basildon Over Safety Fears — Should Braintree Be Next?
E-scooters have officially been pulled from the streets of Basildon after four years of trial — with local councillors citing serious safety concerns as the final straw.
Launched in 2020 as a greener alternative to short-distance car travel, the Basildon trial aimed to test the viability of e-scooters in busy town centres. But according to Labour councillor Aidan McGurran, it didn’t go to plan.
“While e-scooters may offer a green transport alternative, our experience has raised significant safety concerns,” he said.“Residents and businesses reported reckless riding and scooters being left dumped on pavements, causing hazards.”
Despite initial plans to end the scheme in 2021, the trial was extended annually — until Basildon Council finally voted to abandon it in January 2025. Operator Dott removed the vehicles earlier this week.
However, Chelmsford, Colchester, and Braintree are continuing with their own e-scooter trials.
A spokesperson for Dott maintained a positive tone, saying:
“We remain committed to collaborating with local authorities to promote safe and sustainable transport solutions in the future.”
Back in December, Essex County Council confirmed that local authorities have the power to opt out of the scheme if they believe it no longer serves their communities.
What About Braintree?
With Basildon pulling the plug over safety concerns — should Braintree consider opting out too? Have you had any experiences (good or bad) with the e-scooters around town? Do you think they’re a step forward in eco-friendly transport, or just a public nuisance?
👇 Let us know your thoughts in the comments! Would you vote to keep them or send them packing?
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Ban them they are a nuisance cause many problems used by people who don't care what damage they do
Should be ban big safety hazard they are all over the places left on footpaths
They need banning as police won't inforce law with them especially while there's these about
I’d love to smash them all to fucking pieces 🤬🤬🤬🤬
I’d vote to be rid of them!
i hope they ban them for good!!!!!! some one hit my car with one the other week and nothing is being done about it.