August 6, 2020 10.47 am This story is over 42 months old

Lincoln’s first tuk tuk rides get the nod from the council

City council changes policy to allow tuk tuk operator

Lincoln’s first Tuk Tuk rides are one step closer after the city council approved the concept.

Last night, the City of Lincoln Council’s licensing committee voted to allow tuk tuks in the city, which wasn’t something permitted until now.

Tuk Tuk operator Christine Kimbrell, owner of Holla, convinced the council to change the policy with her proposals, but will now have to apply separately for her own licence.

Christine told the committee that her plans to offer pre-bookable rides going up and down the city centre would improve the tourism offer.

She added that it would “make big areas [of Lincoln] accessible” and help join up disparate parts of the city with two-five minute journeys.

Councillor Gary Hewson said: “It will be an attraction to the city and is something that’s needed. It’s something we should give a try in the city and I hope it’s a success.”

Holla was meant to being operating in April (see our first tour in February), but the COVID-19 pandemic meant everything was delayed.

Councillors has some concerns over passenger weight, with estimates the tuk tuk would be able to carry two 13 stone passengers maximum.

However, the business owner confirmed care would be taken with heavier passengers, and there could be the option of a second trip at no extra cost.

Other councillors also joined in with the praise. Councillor Biff Bean said: “It’s a great idea and something that will be good for Lincoln.” He suggested that in future the planned Western Growth Corridor could be linked by Tuk Tuk too.

Holla Tuk Tuk was hoped to initially operate seasonally between April and October half-term. Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

Christine will now have to apply for a licence separately but this will be delegated to officers to make a decision on. She recently said she had hoped to get started this summer despite COVID-19, however, if not, she would begin the business next April.

A trial run of one Tuk Tuk will begin the season and, if successful, the business will upgrade to multiple electric vehicles in the future. Stops along the planned routes include:

  • Castle Hotel, Westgate
  • Train Station, St Mary’s Street
  • Tower Hotel, Westgate
  • White Hart Hotel, Bailgate
  • Drury Lane
  • St Martins Lane
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Brayford Wharf North