Government consults on fines for shared e-bike misuse

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 8 Nov, 09:55 · Archive

The UK government is consulting on licensing rules for shared e-bike schemes that could include fines for pavement riding and other antisocial behaviour.

The government is consulting on new licensing rules for shared cycle and e-bike schemes in England to address antisocial behaviour and safety concerns. The Department for Transport proposes that fines could be imposed for riding on pavements, riding while drunk or underage use. Cycling on pavements is already illegal, though these licensing measures remain proposals rather than rules currently in force.

Under the proposals, local authorities would license schemes and require operators to have plans for parking and tackling illegal or antisocial use. Operators could be required to agree parking plans with licensing authorities, with options including designated bays. The government also proposes fleet size limits and operating areas, alongside plans to manage and maintain bikes.

Authorities could be given powers to set fees and require operators to share data. The consultation seeks views on possible insurance requirements. Third-party insurance could cover claims when a rider injures someone else, although the consultation warns such policies are usually invalidated when a cycle is ridden illegally or against hire conditions. The government does not intend to make insurance compulsory for private cyclists.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said e-bikes could make travel easier but were frustrating when they blocked pavements or were used irresponsibly. He described the measures as 'a small but important everyday fix to make our streets safer' whilst the government makes longer-term changes to transport. Guide Dogs welcomed the consultation.

How it is being reported

• You could soon be being fined for doing this one thing on your commuteEngland's shared e-bike consultation covers parking, rider behaviour and insurance. Find out what is proposed and how to respond.Andover Advertiser · 8 Nov, 09:00
• You could soon be being fined for doing this one thing on your commuteEngland's shared e-bike consultation covers parking, rider behaviour and insurance. Find out what is proposed and how to respond.Romsey Advertiser · 8 Nov, 09:00
• You could soon be being fined for doing this one thing on your commuteEngland's shared e-bike consultation covers parking, rider behaviour and insurance. Find out what is proposed and how to respond.Basingstoke Gazette · 8 Nov, 09:00

In this story: Department for Transport · Andy Burnham · Guide Dogs · England

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