TfL to be able to confiscate London pedicabs after bill backed by Parliament

A new law to regulate unlicensed pedicabs in London was backed by Parliament on Tuesday (March 26).

The Pedicabs (London) Bill gives Transport for London (TfL) powers to crack down on rogue pedicab drivers by regulating fares and improving safety standards, as it can with other forms of transport.

The government says concerns had been raised of customers, including tourists, about being landed with excessive fares for short journeys. It says there have been reports of dangerous driving and antisocial behaviour.

Through the new law, TfL will be able to decide when, where, and how many pedicabs can operate, to ensure they do not cause a hazard to pedestrians and other motorists. 

Drivers in breach of the rules could face having their licence revoked or their pedicab confiscated, or a fine of up to £2,500.

Other powers TfL will be given include ensuring that pedicab drivers undergo criminal record and right to work checks before being allowed to carry passengers. The legislation enables enforcement action against those operating without a licence or outside their licence conditions, including civil sanctions and criminal offences.

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Roads and local transport minister Guy Opperman said: “For too long, rogue pedicabs have taken advantage of the lack of rules around fares and licensing, so we’re taking action to close that loophole.

"We know this issue has caused real concerns about the impact on safety and traffic, from clogging up bus lanes to blaring loud music, and this common-sense law will help to put businesses at ease and end the chaos in hotspots like Soho and Covent Garden."

Ros Morgan, chief executive of Heart of London Business Alliance, said: “We are delighted to see the Pedicabs Bill take its final steps towards becoming law today.

"Without regulation, pedicabs have been a menace to London. With regulation, they could prove to be a safe and environmental means of travel. We look forward to working with TfL, who will enforce the regulations, to ensure that the scheme works for the capital.”

The bill still needs to gain Royal Assent and it is then expected to be a number of weeks, if not months, before the licensing system comes into force.