By Salma El-Sakka
The UK government has launched a consultation proposing on-the-spot fines for drunk or dangerous e-bike riders, part of a crackdown on what ministers call the "wild west" of e-biking. The plans aim to curb antisocial behaviour and make streets safer for pedestrians, wheelchair users and families with prams.
Consultation sets national standards
Published on Thursday, the consultation outlines proposed national standards for shared e-bike schemes. Local leaders would be able to license operators in their areas, enforce minimum standards and better integrate e-bikes into existing transport networks. Measures could include requiring operators to have a parking plan, manage fleet sizes and limit operating areas to prevent overcrowding.
Operators required to improve safety
Firms running shared e-bike schemes such as Lime, Voi, Beryl, Dott, Forest and Bolt would be expected to manage their fleets better and provide designated parking areas to keep pavements clear. They could also be required to take out insurance so people can claim compensation if hit by a shared bike.
Fines for antisocial behaviour
The consultation will consider ways to tackle illegal behaviour, including riding shared cycles drunk, underage or on pavements. Clear consequences such as fines for these offences are proposed, along with potential extra powers for local leaders to set fees and require operators to share data for enforcement and journey planning.
Officials and operators respond
Andy Burnham described the clampdown as a "small but important everyday fix" for safer streets. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said the changes would "stop nuisance parking, tackle antisocial behaviour and make journeys safer". Bosses at Lime, Voi and Bolt welcomed the proposals, saying consistent standards across the country would provide clarity for operators, riders and the public.
