Westminster Bridge ice cream van removed as part of wider efforts to ‘stamp out illegal ice cream sales’

An ice cream van which was illegally obstructing cyclists and flogging lollies on Westminster Bridge has been removed by two local councils.

A joint operation by Lambeth Council and Westminster City Council saw the ice cream van seized, as part of wider attempts to “stamp out illegal ice cream sales on Westminster Bridge”.

According to a Lambeth Council spokesperson, such sellers not only impede those cycling along the well-used route, connecting Lambeth and parliament over the River Thames, but they also take advantage of visitors and have “none of the food hygiene certificates needed”.

While images of the incident implied the Met Police was also involved, a spokesperson confirmed to LondonWorld the operation was led by two councils.

Following the removal of the van, Andy Beverley, from Westminster Healthy Streets, said: “Blocking of cycle lanes with vehicles causes cyclists to veer into the main carriageway, where they can be hit by another vehicle. This is a particularly important point regarding novice cyclists, who may do so unexpectedly.”

He added the incident highlights the issues with local road design, in particular the cycle lane and pavement being too narrow.

Justin Abbott, of nearby Better Streets for Kensington and Chelsea whose members regularly use the bridge, said the ice cream vans park in bus lanes directly adjacent to bike lanes, posing a risk to those walking in and out of the lanes.

“These are not some sort of charming neighbourhood ice cream vans, but illegal traders taking business away from those operating legally.

“Separately, it is astonishing vehicles are allowed to park illegally so frequently in such a sensitive location, but that’s a matter of security as opposed to day to day road safety.”

Cllr Dr. Mahamed Hashi, Lambeth Council’s cabinet member for safer communities, said: “Lambeth Council is working with its partners to stamp out illegal ice cream sales on Westminster Bridge. These unlicensed sellers take advantage of visitors, have none of the food hygiene certificates needed and obstruct cyclists on the bridge.

“Lambeth Council jointly seized an illegally operated ice cream van this week on Westminster Bridge, and has successfully prosecuted others involved in this trade previously. We are committed to maintaining that pressure to end this issue.”

Cllr Aicha Less, deputy leader and cabinet member for communities public protection and licensing at Westminster Council, added: “We all love a 99-ice cream on a sunny day, however, ice cream vans parking illegally on cycle lanes are dangerous for cyclists, pedestrians, and other road users.

“By working with Lambeth Council and the Metropolitan Police we will make sure vans stay away from Westminster Bridge and have the proper licenses to trade in a safe place.”