Lime – the world’s largest shared e-bike and scooter provider – has announced the launch of its 12-month shared e-bike pilot in Castlebar.

The scheme will be delivered in partnership with Mayo County Council and will see up to 100 bikes available for hire in virtual parking bays across the town.

Cathaoirleach of Castlebar Municipal District, Cllr Michael Kilcoyne, was joined by councillors Blackie Gavin and Ger Deere, as well as Mayo County Council’s Climate Action Officer Laura Dixon, and Director of Services John Condon for the launch of Lime bikes in Castlebar.

Castlebar is the first Irish town to welcome Lime’s shared e-bikes, marking the company’s official launch here. Ireland is the 36th country to have launched Lime’s vehicles globally, with the provider operating services in more than 250 cities around the world.

Speaking about the launch, Hal Stevenson, Senior Public Affairs Manager for Lime in Ireland, said: “We are delighted to be launching our first service in Ireland. We look forward to working with Mayo County Council to offer Castlebar residents and visitors a safe and sustainable way to travel around the town.”

To use the e-bikes, riders will need to pay an initial unlock fee of €1 with a charge of 15 cent per minute for the rest of the ride. Lime is working with Mayo County Council to establish parking zones to ensure that the bikes are always parked responsibly and avoid pavement obstructions.

Cathaoirleach of Castlebar Municipal District, Cllr Michael Kilcoyne, said: “I am delighted to launch the Lime e-Bike sharing scheme for Castlebar. Castlebar Municipal District has worked hard over the last number of years to improve the cycling infrastructure in and around the town. Now, more than ever, with both the climate and energy crisis it is important to provide facilities that allow the people of Castlebar to choose alternative modes of travel. This scheme allows us to choose to travel in a more sustainable way and enjoy the social, environmental, and health benefits of cycling.”