2 days ago
- Automotive
- Irish Independent
Two more Wicklow towns added to Moby e-bike scheme
Each e-bike comes equipped with features that support safer, more convenient travel, including automatic gearing, GPS tracking and long-lasting batteries with a range of up to 70 km. Recognising that the hilly terrain in Wicklow can be a barrier to conventional cycling, the council has partnered with Moby to offer a practical and accessible solution.
Cllr Paul O'Brien launched the scheme on Friday, June 13, in what was his final official duties as Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, before passing on the chain of office to Cllr Melanie Corrigan.
He stated: 'This is a smart, climate-focused initiative that will make a real difference to how people move around our towns. By offering a clean and convenient alternative to the private car, we're reducing congestion, cutting emissions, and improving the quality of life for our residents and visitors. This is a practical step toward a more sustainable future for County Wicklow.'
He added: 'The scheme was a huge success when launched in Bray and was also recently launched in Greystones. I worked hard before my time was up as Cathaoirleach to make sure the scheme came to our county town. We are always seeing different schemes and initiatives taking place in Bray or Greystones, so it was great to see Wicklow town and Rathnew being treated the same.
'Obviously, we hope the scheme provides a big tourism boost, and I know from talking to the local chamber of commerce, they get a lot of requests from tourists and visitors looking to rent bikes. However, the e-bikes aren't just for tourists, we want everyone to use them, including residents of Wicklow town and Rathnew. The e-bike docks are dotted throughout Wicklow town and Rathnew, near to schools and attractions such as the Black Castle ad the Murrough.
"E-bike stations are also strategically located near public transport hubs, schools, sports centres, tourist sites and residential areas, making it easier than ever to leave the car at home.
"I also hope the e-bikes get the respect they deserve. I know there were some issues in Greystones with e-bikes being discarded along footpaths, and I hope we don't encounter the same issues in Wicklow and Rathnew.'
Users can rent and return bikes through the Moby Move app, with designated parking stands and virtual zones helping to manage the service sustainably. The scheme operates 24/7 with flexible pricing, including pay-per-use options. New users will receive €10 in free ride credit to encourage them to try the service and make the shift toward smarter travel.
CEO and founder of Moby Thomas O'Connell commented: 'Our goal is to support Wicklow County Council in making sustainable travel an easy and appealing choice.
"Whether commuting, connecting to public transport, or exploring the area, our e-bikes offer a reliable and zero-emission alternative to driving. We're proud to help Wicklow lead the way in smarter mobility.'
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To further support this shift, Wicklow County Council's green team and climate action team will launch a workplace travel survey from July 21.
This survey will form part of the TFI smarter travel behaviour change programme and will gather insights into how council staff are adapting their travel habits in light of new mobility options like the Moby e-bikes available in Bray, Greystones and Wicklow town. In addition to the bike scheme, a shared electric pool car will also be made available at county buildings.
