A NEW e-bike hire scheme which will see docking stations set up at locations across the district has been given the green light.

The initiative, which will be launched using money raised through the district's Clean Air Zone, has won the approval of Bradford Council's executive.

Work will now begin to find an operator for the project, due to be up and running next spring to coincide with the UK City of Culture.

Through the venture, people will be able to hire e-bikes from docking stations, and then return the machines either to the same location or another docking station.

Initially the scheme will be trialled for 18 months, and involve between 150 and 200 e-bikes.

Up to 50 docking stations will be provided.

Locations are still to be determined, but potential sites flagged up include Haworth and a spot around East Riddlesden Hall.

Around £800,000 of Clean Air Zone cash will be used to set up and market the project, which it's hoped once trialled will become profitable or “self-sustaining”.

If it does become profitable, income will be split between the operator and the council.

Andrew Whittles, the council's assistant director for sustainability, told executive members: "The Clean Air Zone money has to be spent in line with the terms of the charging scheme, and cycling is one area where we are allowed to spend the funds.

"We’ve seen with many other similar schemes developed in the UK that it takes around 18 months for them to become sustainable."

He added that Bradford's university and college, and Bradford 2025, had expressed interest in sponsoring the scheme.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, executive member for healthy people and places, said: “This is a brilliant scheme.

"This initiative means people will be able to pick up a bike when they get off a train and continue their journey.”

She adds: "The future for Bradford district is exciting as sustainable transport systems are improving, with cycling playing a significant role in achieving our net zero aims.

"Several cycle network schemes will be coming to fruition to coincide with the launch of the e-bike hire venture, providing cycle infrastructure for residents, workers and visitors to the district.

"We are therefore pleased to bring forward these plans to use Clean Air Zone funds to offer an e-bike hire scheme. We want everyone to be able to utilise the opportunities that are presented to enjoy active travel."