Wandsworth imposes two-hour removal rule on e-bike operators

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 15 Oct, 11:30 · Archive

Wandsworth Council has launched a Fair Use Charter requiring e-bike and e-scooter operators to remove obstructive bikes within two hours.

Wandsworth Council has launched a Fair Use Charter for e-bike and e-scooter operators in response to reports of obstructive parking and pavement misuse. A new operational team is now working across the borough to monitor compliance and remove badly parked bikes.

The charter sets clear expectations for operators and requires them to remove obstructive or dangerous bikes within two hours of a report. The council has also gained stronger powers to take enforcement action and make operators pay for breaches.

Cllr Nick Austin, cabinet member for transport, said the charter 'stands up for residents and their need for safe pavements and public spaces'. He acknowledged that e-bikes 'provide a convenient and flexible travel option' but noted residents are 'rightly frustrated with bikes blocking our pavements and roads'.

Concerns have been raised about parked bikes blocking access for wheelchair users, parents with buggies and residents with limited mobility. The council has encouraged residents to report obstructively parked e-bikes, particularly those blocking pavements, roads or public spaces.

E-bike usage in Wandsworth has grown significantly. In 2025, eight million e-bike journeys were recorded in the borough, with the number expected to surpass 10 million this year. While the schemes have helped reduce car journeys, the rise in usage has intensified parking concerns.

How it is being reported

• Wandsworth orders e-bike operators to remove obstructive bikes within two hoursWandsworth Council launches Fair Use Charter for e-bike and e-scooter parking, tackling pavement misuse and requiring operators to remove bikes quickly.Wandsworth Guardian · 15 Oct, 10:49
• Wandsworth orders e-bike operators to remove obstructive bikes within two hoursWandsworth Council launches Fair Use Charter for e-bike and e-scooter parking, tackling pavement misuse and requiring operators to remove bikes quickly.Croydon Guardian · 15 Oct, 10:49
• Wandsworth orders e-bike operators to remove obstructive bikes within two hoursWandsworth Council launches Fair Use Charter for e-bike and e-scooter parking, tackling pavement misuse and requiring operators to remove bikes quickly.This Is Local London · 15 Oct, 10:49

In this story: Wandsworth Council · Wandsworth · Nick Austin

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