Council / Council bans indoor storage of e-bikes after fire concerns
A BAN on the indoor storage and charging of electric bikes and scooters has been introduced by Shetland Islands Council at its premises.
It comes following national concerns about serious fires being linked to lithium-ion batteries in some electric modes of transport, and follows the serious fire next to Glasgow’s Central Station on Sunday.
The council said the ban would apply to indoor storage of electric bikes and scooters at all buildings owned, managed or occupied by the SIC – including schools and community facilities.
It said there were no suitable facilities at council premises to safely store or charge these devices.
E-bikes may still be stored outdoors on council property, but “must be kept at least 10 metres away” from buildings, waste and smoking areas, combustible goods and “other valuable assets”.
Environment and estate operations manager Carl Symons said the safety of their residents, pupils, staff and visitors was their “absolute priority”.
“While incidents are relatively rare, lithium-ion battery fires can develop quickly and are difficult to extinguish,” he said.
“Considering national fire safety concerns, we have taken the precautionary step of prohibiting indoor storage and charging of e-bikes and e-scooters across our premises.”
The council added it remains “committed to promoting active travel” and would encourage walking and cycling as healthy and sustainable ways to travel.
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