Electric Mobility in Scotland: Electric Scooters in the Future Urban Landscape
Scottish Minister for Transport Fiona Hyslop has expressed her belief that electric scooters will “inevitably” be part of Scotland’s transportation landscape in the future.
However, she acknowledged that public opinion on the matter is “quite polarized” and that there are “real safety issues.” The safety of pedestrians and cyclists in the face of these devices is one of the main concerns expressed by the minister.
Implications of Electric Scooters for Cyclists and Pedestrians
Fiona Hyslop emphasized the challenges posed by the use of electric scooters in spaces shared with pedestrians and cyclists. “Encouraging walking and cycling in these shared spaces could be compromised by the dangers posed by electric scooters,” she mentioned.
Trials in the UK, but Not in Scotland
Electric scooter trials have been ongoing in the UK since 2020, and the government has extended these trials until May 2026. However, no trials are currently being conducted in Scotland, which means that the use of electric scooters is not legal on Scottish roads. Private scooters can only be used on private land with the landowner’s permission.
Legislation Awaiting Update
In 2022, the government announced its intention to legalize electric scooters by creating a category of low-speed and zero-emission vehicles. Unfortunately, this project has faced multiple delays.
Opportunity for Future Trials in Scotland
Regarding trials in Scotland, Hyslop stated: “I think it is important to consider these programs. It is not our current priority, and any move would be considered in line with our plans to develop bus lanes and active mobility paths. Managing these elements should be coordinated to ensure sensible use.” She did not, however, rule out the possibility of a trial, while emphasizing the importance of safety and public confidence.
Initiative Supported by the Opposition
Scottish Conservatives, through Graham Simpson, support the idea of conducting electric scooter trials in Scotland. According to him, the fact that trials have been conducted in England without a Scottish equivalent is a gap that would be good to fill. “People are already using electric scooters in Edinburgh and Glasgow, even though it is illegal. A trial would therefore be wise,” he said.
A Transport Strategy That Adapts
In 2022, Glasgow City Council asked the Scottish government to amend the legislation to allow the use of electric scooters on the country’s roads. A strategic transport policy document indicated that the vehicles would be “closely monitored” if introduced.
Favorable Reception by Shared Transport Organizations
The shared transport charity CoMoUK, through its CEO Richard Dilks, expressed approval of Fiona Hyslop’s openness to conducting trials in Scotland. According to Dilks, it is essential that the Scottish and British governments collaborate to make this possible. He highlighted that public perceptions of shared scooters are often “obscured” by the behavior of personal scooter users who are completely unregulated to date.