Milton Keynes e-scooter operator offers free rides to all frontline workers

The 'Lime Access' scheme started today (Wednesday) and will provide discounted rides of at least 50 per cent for people on low incomes.

The company has also launched 'Lime Aid', which provides frontline workers, including NHS and emergency services staff, with unlimited free 30 minute e-scooter rides to help them commute to work without coming into contact with others.

This will reduce the spread of coronavirus by providing a safe, socially-distanced transport option free of charge. say Lime.

The company expects to invest £1 million in the two support schemes over the next 12 months.

Lime launched its Access initiative to remove barriers to mobility for lower income users in Milton Keynes.

A spokesman said: "Existing transport networks in towns and cities do not always reach every community equally, while rideshare and personal cars are expensive and carbon intensive. Eligible users in Milton Keynes will be able to use the service to travel door-to-door to important commitments like job interviews and doctors appointments in an efficient and cost effective way.

The scheme means that a Lime Access user would be charged as little as £1.40 for a journey of a mile and a half, far below the cost of the average taxi fare, helping lower income riders to take advantage of the safe, socially distanced service.

To protect its riders and the wider community, Lime continues to invest in Covid-secure protocols, including following Public Health England’s recommendations for disinfection by cleaning its e-bikes and scooters every time it comes into contact with them.

Florence Milner, Lime’s General Manager in the UK and Ireland said: "We’re proud to launch our industry-leading Lime Access and Lime Aid schemes in the UK to support our lower income riders and say a massive thank you to front line and emergency service workers across the towns and cities in which we operate. Lime is committed to delivering sustainable mobility for all, especially at a time where our service can provide a safe, socially distanced transport option for those that need it."