AUTOMATIC speed restrictions for hire e-scooters will return to the seafront promenades in Bournemouth and Poole from next month.

Bicycle and e-scooter hire provider Beryl has confirmed the go slow scheme will run from the Jazz Café at Sandbanks, past Bournemouth and Boscombe piers, and end at Southbourne Beach.

E-scooter riders entering the zone, which is implemented through GPS and geo-fencing technology, will have their speed automatically and gradually slowed down to three miles per hour.

Beryl said it encourages riders to walk their e-scooter through these seafront areas.

The go slow zones were introduced as part of a trial scheme in partnership with BCP Council throughout the summer and festive periods last year.

They are in line with BCP Council regulations for cycling on seafront walkways and the promenade.

By reducing speeds in areas of anticipated high footfall, the zones allow for safer integration while still encouraging residents and visitors to the area to take active travel measures where possible, a Beryl spokesperson said.

Phil Ellis, Beryl chief executive, said: “It is safe and convenient to ride an e-scooter throughout most areas of Bournemouth and Poole, and they continue to provide a fun and cost-effective alternative to car travel, reducing congestion and carbon emissions.

“However, we know from previous experience and from working closely in partnership with BCP Council that the promenade areas are extremely popular during the summer months and attract thousands of people.

“It is therefore paramount that we not only consider the safety of the wider public, but also our riders too as people venture out to enjoy the picturesque scenery and many attractions.

“The technology involved in the ‘Go Slow’ zones is incredibly safe and has been vigorously tested by our operations team, so riders can be assured that when they enter these zones their e-scooter will gradually slow down to the set limit.”

Beryl will send push notifications to riders’ phones when they are entering the go slow areas so they are aware of the incoming speed change. The licensed Beryl e-scooters are equipped with phone holders for enhanced safety and easy navigation.

The hire e-scooters can be used on roads, cycle lanes, carriageways and other areas where cycling is permitted but not on pavements. E-scooter riders will be required to provide a valid UK driving licence before using the vehicle.

Privately-owned e-scooters are still not legal on public roads.