e-bike loan service could be the answer to traffic congestion and improve air quality

Around 800 to 1,000 e-bikes could be available for hire across the city if a scheme by Stoke on Trent City Council to hire them out goes ahead.

Similar schemes, run by providers such as Lime and Beryl, are already running in many cities and towns in the UK, including London, Manchester and Nottingham.

Council chiefs believe e-bike hire will help improve connectivity in Stoke-on-Trent while cutting traffic congestion and improving air quality.

The scheme would be run as a concession, with the provider taking on operational and commercial responsibilities, and the council ensuring it meets safety and performance standards.