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Date Published: 17/10/2025

Benidorm gets serious with UK seniors on mobility scooters: ‘Don’t drink and drive’

With more British holidaymakers riding scooters around town, locals demand tougher rules and safety measures

Benidorm has long been known as a lively party hotspot where younger tourists enjoy a drink or two a little too much. But this year, the town’s spotlight is shifting to its older visitors. An increasing number of UK seniors are zipping through the streets on mobility scooters, sometimes after a tipple or two, sparking complaints from locals who say the scooters are taking over and making walking difficult in busy areas.

Reports say there are now over 1,500 mobility scooters of various sizes roaming Benidorm, from single-seaters to bigger ones carrying couples. One scooter rental shop owner believes the popularity has surged since the British TV show 'Benidorm' portrayed a character always scooting around, making the vehicles seem almost fashionable among British holidaymakers.

Despite rental rules that limit hires to people over 55 or those with disabilities, residents want stricter controls. They argue scooters should only be used by people who genuinely need them, and call for a ban on scooter use under the influence of alcohol, pointing out the dangers of speeding and loss of control that could hurt pedestrians.

Former Formula 1 driver Johnny Herbert recently featured in a campaign urging British pensioners to use scooters responsibly. Health experts have also raised concerns that relying heavily on scooters might reduce seniors’ overall physical activity.

Benidorm is no stranger to mobility scooter issues. Since 2019, there have been regulations governing such vehicles. In 2022, local authorities stepped up enforcement focusing on older users and rental shops. Now, scooters can only be rented to people with proven mobility problems or those over 55. Fines of up to €500 are in place for breaking the rules or misusing scooters.

People with limited mobility are allowed to ride scooters on pavements but must keep speeds under 4 km/h - roughly walking pace. Yet many scooters can reach up to 12 km/h, making it easy to speed without realising.

As the number of scooter users rises among British holidaymakers, Benidorm is taking a firm stand on safety and accessibility, aiming to keep its streets safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Image: Chatgpt

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