Wheels stop turning for Limerick city bike scheme

LIMERICK City and County Council has confirmed that the dockless bike share pilot scheme, launched in April 2023, will come to a close this month, writes Faye Dorgan.

The scheme is operated by Tier-Dott, which is ceasing its Irish operations. This does not affect the TFI Bike Share scheme operating across Limerick City.

The Tier-Dott Dockless Bike Share Pilot Scheme introduced a new level of accessibility to cycling for a wide range of demographics and abilities in the Castletroy area, while also providing a small number of parking locations in the city centre.

The Council says it is proud of the scheme’s achievements, particularly its contribution to sustainable transport options and its role in encouraging more people to embrace cycling as a convenient mode of transport. While the conclusion of this pilot is a disappointment, it provided valuable insights.

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Brian Kennedy, director of Services for Transportation and Mobility at Limerick City and County Council said: “We are grateful to Tier-Dott for their excellent work and commitment to the Limerick area throughout the pilot.

“The Council is working towards implementation of a comprehensive bike share scheme as well as other mobility share schemes that can be considered for a broader spread of the city and county, where suitable.

“This initiative allowed us to test and refine ideas for improving sustainable mobility, and we remain committed to exploring innovative solutions in partnership with the National Transport Authority (NTA).”

Tier-Dott is ceasing operations in Ireland and has begun removing vehicles from service in Limerick since December 1, aiming to complete the process by December 20.

The Council would like to extend its sincere thanks to the people of Limerick for their enthusiasm and support of the scheme. They remains committed to improving transport options for residents and visitors alike and will continue working towards innovative, long-term solutions to support cycling and active travel across the region.