Bike rental scheme is mooted for town

A BIKE rental scheme for Ennis town and its environs would be the solution to a shortage of parking in the county capital, Ennis’ Deputy Mayor believes.
Councillor Paul Murphy made the call for the introduction of such a scheme to be “prioritised” as part of the Ennis Town Mobility Plan at a recent meeting of the Ennis Municipal District.
The motion seconded by Mayor of Ennis Councillor Ann Norton who voiced her support.
The proposal will be considered in the Ennis Town Mobility Plan, Leonore O’Neill, senior executive officer with the Ennis Municipal District confirmed.
Councillor Murphy stated that the inclusion of a bike rental scheme “should be a key component” of the mobility plan for a number of reasons, to improve mobility and also to give more options to people who want to come into town.”
He added that the villages of Clarecastle and Barefield should be included in the proposed scheme.
“People could come and park on the outskirts of the town. This is a solution to the lack of parking in town, park up in Clarecastle or Barefield and take a bike into town. It is something that should be considered and supported. This is getting back to the wellbeing and smarter travel.”
He added that E bikes could also be included in the scheme to facilitate those who may have difficulties riding a traditional bicycle.
Councillor Johnny Flynn gave the idea his “full support”.
“If we are going to change what is a thirteenth century town centre to a twenty first century town we need to give priority to pedestrians and cyclists then this is the way forward.”