Sources: Fietsberaad, Gemeente Groningen Picture credit: Alexander Bagno, Unsplash

From March 1, the shared micromobility picture in Groningen, the Netherlands, has changed, with 50 electric cargo bikes now added to the mix, alongside more shared scooters. The municipality aims to boost accessibility and livability with its updated shared transport offering.

The new cargo bikes will be available from fixed locations, which were decided in collaboration with Groningen residents, helping to ensure that they are placed in spots which suit the neighbourhood, and can provide greater carrying power than a standard bike for tasks such as grocery shopping or ferrying children around. Shared mobility policy advisor, Thijs Oost, said, “We see in other cities that cargo bikes really add value. They don’t replace a regular bicycle, but they complement the supply for specific situations.”

The new scheme also involves two new operators for shared bikes, providing a total fleet of 800, and a doubling of the shared e-scooter fleet to 600 units. Both shared bikes and e-scooters may only be parked in specific digital parking zones, which can be easily viewed in the operators’ apps, to ensure that pavements and pedestrian areas remain free of clutter.

Keeping Groningen moving

Alderman Philip Broeksma said, “shared mobility helps keep Groningen accessible and liveable, especially now that the municipality is growing. With clear rules, we ensure that usage goes hand in hand with a safe and accessible public space. That is why we are opting for control. Shared bicycles and shared scooters may only be parked in digital parking zones, and shared cargo bikes will be assigned fixed spots. Usage is monitored, and providers promptly remove illegally parked vehicles.”

Municipal authorities advise that discounts will be available in due course for the shared vehicles, for Stadjerspas holders, students, and the elderly. More details on this will follow after discussions with the service providers.