Lime Bikes, the bright green electric bikes available to hire across parts of Nottingham and surrounding areas, were introduced to offer a greener and more convenient alternative to car travel. With just a few taps on a smartphone, people can pick up an e-bike, ride it to their destination, and park it ready for the next user. In theory, it’s a great step forward in encouraging more sustainable travel and improving access to affordable transport.
However, I have growing concerns about the increasing number of Lime Bikes being vandalised and partially stolen. These acts are not only mindless vandalism, but they pose real and serious dangers to public safety.
Parts taken from these electric bikes are reportedly being used to convert ordinary mountain bikes into electric-powered ones — a trend that is not only illegal but incredibly dangerous. These DIY e-bikes are often sold on to unsuspecting buyers, who may not realise the major risks involved. The biggest concern is that these converted bikes are not built to proper safety standards and are often charged using incompatible or unregulated equipment. This raises the risk of overheating and potentially devastating battery fires.
Only this morning, I came across yet another vandalised Lime Bike dumped on Mill Road, Stapleford — a scene that is sadly becoming far too common. I have now raised these issues at several Broxtowe Borough Council meetings, calling for stronger action and accountability. I have also requested that the council ask for figures from Lime themselves to determine just how many of their bikes have been reported as damaged or stolen.
These bikes, like all electric vehicles, need to be charged properly using the correct equipment. Using stolen parts with incompatible chargers or makeshift batteries dramatically increases the risk of serious accidents, including electrical fires that could endanger not only the rider but also others nearby.
It’s vital that we act now — not only to protect a valuable transport service, but to prevent a potential tragedy. I urge anyone who witnesses bike vandalism or illegal e-bike conversions to report it immediately to the Police or Crimestoppers.
Let’s keep our communities safe and ensure services like Lime can continue to be used in the way they were intended — legally, responsibly, and safely.
If you’d like to discuss this issue or report a concern directly, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
Independent Councillor Richard MacRae 