Current status: Answered by Stephen Flynn on 5 June 2026
To ask the Scottish Government, further to the answer to question S6W-40188 by Fiona Hyslop on 16 September 2025, what progress has been made to enable local authorities to participate in e-scooter hire trials.
Some Scottish local authorities had previously expressed interest in participating in the Department for Transport’s shared e-scooter trials, and we had planned to support them. However, the short application window offered by DfT for participation in the final round of trials did not allow sufficient time for the introduction of the necessary devolved legislation, meaning that Scottish local authorities are unable to participate.
Recognising the potential e-scooters and other micromobility vehicles have to boost local connectivity and reduce emissions, we continue to engage closely with DfT on their plans for legislation, including input to their forthcoming consultation on e-scooter regulations, and continue to develop the evidence base and policy position on e-scooters in Scotland. In the meantime, officials are exploring the potential for trials of e-scooter share schemes on private land in Scotland.