RAIL bosses have announced a total ban on e-scooters in a bid to “ensure passenger safety and comfort”. 

c2c has confirmed that from September 4 there will be a ban on e-scooters, e-unicycles and e-hoverboards on all trains and stations across its network.

This includes stations in both Basildon and Southend. 

Bosses say the ban aims to create a “more pleasant and secure travel experience” for c2c customers, and follows the introduction of similar bans on other UK train lines.

Stuart Browning, c2c’s head of safety and environment, said: “Our customers’ safety is our top priority, which is why we have made the decision to ban e-scooters, e-unicycles, and e-hoverboards on our trains and stations.

“This measure ensures an enhanced travel experience, enabling our passengers to enjoy their journey comfortably and without any disruption. 

“This ban will bring numerous benefits to c2c’s customers; by removing these potentially hazardous objects from trains and stations, passengers can feel reassured about their safety and avoid any inconvenience caused by their usage.”

However Basildon Council leader Andrew Baggott warned that rail firms may appear out of touch.

He said: “I can understand what they are doing and why they are doing it for passengers.

“But on the other hand, if people want to use the scooters legally and properly, they will be upset they now can’t.

“It was like back with bikes - trains had a special compartment for bikes.

“So, on one hand I do understand, but on the other it seems a little out of touch.

“It is a tough one. I understand why the public, especially if the train is packed, don’t want people getting on with them.

“But it is the responsibility of the train company to move with the times. Maybe it is time to look at how many people are using them and whether it is worth having a compartment to put them in like bikes.”

Kevin Buck, councillor responsible for highways, transport and parking at Southend Council, added: “I understand why they may have done it. 

“But I would personally ask the rail company to identify more clearly why they are banning these devices, and what evidence they have used.  I am sure they have their own reasons.

“But this could cause some problems.”