ELECTRIC bikes are now available to hire across York - and 250 rental e-scooters have been upgraded with smaller decks to stop two people riding them at the same time.

Tier launched a trial of electric scooters for hire last year as part of Government environmentally-friendly transport plans.

The company has now added 50 electric bikes to their fleet.

Cllr Andy D'Agorne said he hopes it means more people will be able to use green transport: “This trial is a great opportunity to explore how e-bikes can add to the mix of sustainable transport options in York, whilst helping to improve air quality and expand our electric vehicle offer.

"We are working closely with Tier to ensure that this new mode of sustainable travel fits the needs of our residents and visitors as we work together to create a greener, cleaner city. Availability of e-bikes for hire and the new scooter design will help to make this service even more accessible for a wider range of users."

Upgraded e-scooters have also been fitted with improved identification plates so people can report irresponsible riders. The scooters have been used by more than 6,500 people since the trial was launched and there are nearly 40 marked parking areas.

York Central MP Rachael Maskell said: "E-bikes and e-scooters open up new opportunities for local residents and visitors to get around the city while also helping to mitigate climate change and congestion."

York Outer MP Julian Sturdy added: "As they expand their fleet and coverage of our city, Tier is helping to improve connectivity across York and offering residents more choice about how they travel."

The Government is currently carrying out a survey for users of the Tier app to hear residents' experiences.

Privately owned e-scooters are still illegal to ride on public land. E-scooters and e-bikes cannot be used in York's pedestrianised streets but can be used on roads and cycle paths.