Launched on 20 October 2022 with 25 bikes and 20 e-bikes, the scheme now has more than 4,200 riders, who have generated more than 12,700 sustainable transport journeys across more than 27,500 kilometres - more than halfway around the planet. 

Feedback from those users shows that more than 2150 of their trips have replaced a private road transport journey, including driving or being a passenger in a car, van, motorbike or taxi. 

According to industry calculations, that has saved almost a tonne of carbon emissions - a significant contribution to boosting local air quality. 

Beryl CEO and co-founder, Phil Ellis said: “It’s true that, by bringing a well-planned, easy-to-use and cost-effective bike share scheme to an area such as Hertsmere, you break down the barriers to cycling for a lot of people. 

“I think the numbers show that we have achieved that so far and, by doing so, have had a positive impact on alleviating traffic congestion, reducing carbon emissions and improving public health. 

“I’m looking forward to working alongside our scheme partners Hertsmere Borough Council to build on the scheme’s successful start and encourage even more people to make more sustainable transport choices.”

Cllr Paul Richards, Portfolio Holder for Environmental Sustainability and Net Zero and Public Health, said: “I am delighted so many people have already taken to a Beryl bike in Borehamwood. I love to see them being used around the town.

"Our cycle scheme is a sustainable and healthy way for our residents and visitors to get around Borehamwood, without having to rely on petrol or diesel-powered vehicles. Beryl bays have been installed at key locations, which allows users to make quick, easy trips across the town and surrounding areas – perfect for work, leisure or running errands.

“The cycle hire scheme is just one part of our sustainability aims and our commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions no later than 2050. It will help us to make positive impacts not only on our environment, by reducing car traffic and air pollution, but also on the health and wellbeing of our local communities, by providing a healthy alternative to jumping in the car. It’s simple and cheap to hire a bike, so why not download the app and give it a try.”

The scheme’s 27 bays have been located as conveniently as possible following consultation with communities and key stakeholders. This means that 28,089 people are no more than a five minute walk from a bay, which represents 87.5% of the service area's population.

The project is being funded by Strategic Community Infrastructure Levy, Section 106 contribution from SKY Studios and Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy from Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council.’

Riders can pay for their journeys in a variety of ways to suit individual needs and  circumstances. 

• Pay As You Ride is best for single journeys or occasional rides and will cost users £1 unlocking fee and 5p per minute on pedal bikes or £1.50 unlocking fee and 10p per minute on e-bikes
• Minute Bundles enable regular users to buy upfront and save money, starting at 100 minutes for £5
• Day Passes are suitable for people on long days out and offer people unlimited riding over a 24-hour-period for £12 for pedal bikes only or £16 to include e-bikes

The Beryl app is available for free download on the App Store for iOS, and the Google Play Store for Android users.

For more information, visit beryl.cc/hertsmere