Cllrs insist ‘small minority’ can’t be let ruin new travel initiative

The launch of the new bike sharing scheme, also saw incidents of bikes being dumped or abandoned throughout the town leading to fears that a small minority might ruin what has been hailed a very welcome addition to travel options in Navan.

Cllr Alan Lawes discovered one dumped in bushes at the IDA in Johnstown, brought it home and rang Tier, the company who operates the scheme.

"Unfortunately there are always the few who try to mess things up for the rest of us," he said.

Cllr Tommy Reilly said it was disgraceful to see bikes being thrown around. "It is a shame, because then they wont be there for people who want to use them.

"I spoke to a man who had seen two young lads trying to move one of the bikes without using the app when he challenged him they were abusive."

Cllr Eddie Fennessy said the terms and conditions for using the bike rental scheme are pretty clear.

"Users must park the bicycles in a responsible and safe manner. Causing an obstruction on a footpath is not acceptable. I urge people to have respect for others and be be mindful of where you park."

"The main objective with the scheme is to encourage people to leave their cars at home and to enjoy the health benefits of cycling around the town. I intend to use the scheme myself and I encourage everyone to use the bikes as often as they can. You'll be a healthier happier person for doing so.

"I commend the council for rolling out such a progressive scheme, it's a great news story for the town. It has certainly put Navan on the map and I'm sure it will be a great success," he said.

All of the bikes are fitted with GPS tracking. Outside of the town centre area, where there are bike racks, bikes can be left to the side of the pavement, not obstructing any pathways, doors or stairways.