By Salma El-Sakka
The UK Department for Transport has opened a consultation on new regulations for shared e-bike schemes, aiming to end what officials describe as a “wild west” of parking and safety issues.
Consultation targets shared e-bike operators
The proposals cover parking and fleet management plans to prevent street overcrowding, potential insurance requirements for operators, and measures against antisocial behaviour such as drunk cycling, pavement riding, and underage users.
National standards to replace patchwork rules
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said establishing national standards would give local leaders the power to stop nuisance parking, tackle antisocial behaviour, and make journeys safer.
London mayor supports devolved powers
In London, Alexander is working with Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan to devolve new powers to Transport for London, standardising enforcement across boroughs. Khan said the current “wild west” approach cannot continue.
Greater Manchester mayor calls for community control
Andy Burnham said e-bikes could ease travel but cause frustration when blocking pavements; he wants communities more control over parking and for companies and riders to follow the rules.
Operators and advocates welcome move
Forest chief executive Agustin Guilisasti called for a coherent London-wide system, noting around 350,000 shared e-bike trips daily in the capital. Lime chief executive Wayne Ting said the consultation provides needed clarity. Guide Dogs policy head Eleanor Briggs said national standards would give much-needed powers to tackle dangerous parking that blocks pavements for people with sight loss.
