E-SCOOTERS are being launched on a Braintree industrial estate.

Businesses and workers on Springwood Industrial Estate can apply for a free monthly subscription to the Spin+ electric scooters which are currently being trialled in Braintree.

Braintree Council hopes the scooters will help reduce congestion in the area.

Economic growth boss Tom Cunningham said: “We hope our local businesses based on the Springwood Industrial Estate use this great opportunity to trial e-scooters for free.

"For those that live locally, this provides a solution for a quicker, cleaner, greener commute to work as well as transport into the town centre to run small errands and reduce congestion.”

Ten monthly e-scooter subscriptions are available on a first come, first served basis.

Spin is Ford’s micromobility division.

Spokesman Steve Pyer said: “E-scooters are a simple and fun way to get around especially for short journeys that would be otherwise done by driving a car, therefore reducing congestion and better for the environment.

"Riders are able to connect to and from three train stations in the service area, Braintree, Braintree Freeport and Cressing.

"The Spin e-scooters are also a great way for socially-distanced journeys to those who live or work around here.”

Private e-scooters are currently illegal on public roads in the UK and have proved controversial.

Businesses on Springwood Industrial Estate are urged to contact Braintree Council's economic development team to take part in the initiative.