Councils given powers to regulate e-bike schemes

Summarised from 4 outlets · 5 reports · Updated 5 Nov, 10:36 · Archive

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander announced national standards to give councils greater powers to regulate shared e-bike schemes and tackle pavement parking.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander announced new national standards for shared e-bike schemes, giving councils greater powers to regulate operators and riders. The proposals aim to end what the government describes as 'wild west' e-bike parking and improve safety across towns and cities.

Under the proposed rules, local authorities will be able to license schemes and enforce minimum standards. Councils will also be able to set defined fleet sizes, operating areas, and fleet management and maintenance plans. Requirements for parking plans will keep pavements clear, particularly for wheelchair users and families with prams.

The measures address antisocial behaviour including riding on pavements, underage use, and riding while intoxicated. Alexander said: 'Shared e-bike schemes have revolutionised the way people travel around our towns and cities. They are easy to use, get us active and help reduce emissions, but we need to make sure they work with the communities where they operate.'

The government is consulting on whether councils should have additional powers, such as setting fees and requiring operators to share data to support enforcement and improve planning. This would help ensure e-bikes are safe, available where needed, and do not overcrowd public spaces.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham backed the plans, saying: 'E-bikes can make getting around that bit easier, but when they block pavements or are used irresponsibly they can be a real frustration.' The consultation will determine the final scope of councils' powers to regulate the schemes.

Councils given powers to regulate e-bike schemes — Image: This Is Local London

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How it is being reported

Londoners could face major changes to rental e-bike parking rulesLondon rental e-bikes could face tougher parking rules under new Government proposals giving councils powers to tackle pavement obstructions and antisocial behaviour.This Is Local London · 5 Nov, 10:45
E-bike riders to face crackdown over ‘wild west’ and pavement blocking parkingHeidi Alexander launches consultation on national shared e-bike standards, giving councils powers to tackle pavement parking, antisocial riding and clutter.News Shopper · 5 Nov, 09:57
E-bike riders to face crackdown over ‘wild west’ and pavement blocking parkingHeidi Alexander launches consultation on national shared e-bike standards, giving councils powers to tackle pavement parking, antisocial riding and clutter.Wandsworth Guardian · 5 Nov, 09:57
E-bike riders to face crackdown over ‘wild west’ and pavement blocking parkingHeidi Alexander launches consultation on national shared e-bike standards, giving councils powers to tackle pavement parking, antisocial riding and clutter.This Is Local London · 5 Nov, 09:57
E-bike riders to face crackdown over ‘wild west’ and pavement blocking parkingHeidi Alexander launches consultation on national shared e-bike standards, giving councils powers to tackle pavement parking, antisocial riding and clutter.Croydon Guardian · 5 Nov, 09:57

In this story: Heidi Alexander · Andy Burnham

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