Hemma Visavadia
Guest Reporter
Transport for London (TfL) has revealed it will launch a public consultation in the upcoming weeks on the new regulations for pedicabs, following landmark legislation passed in March.
The Pedicabs (London) Bill, which received parliamentary approval this spring, grants TfL powers to regulate the previously uncontrolled industry in the capital.
TfL Commissioner Andy Lord confirmed the upcoming consultation in a recent letter to Westminster Council leaders. The move aims to bring pedicabs in line with other forms of London transport, addressing concerns about unregulated fares and safety standards.
The consultation will help shape the final regulations before they are presented to Parliament as a Statutory Instrument.
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Under the new regulations, TfL will have authority to control pedicab fares, similar to its oversight of black taxi cabs. The transport body will be able to issue fines of up to £2,500 to operators who violate the rules. TfL will also have the power to confiscate pedicabs from operators who breach the regulations.
The legislation enables TfL to determine when and where pedicabs can operate, addressing concerns about pavement obstruction in busy areas across the capital.
The new framework will require pedicab operators to meet specific safety standards and prevent them from clustering around popular locations.
The former roads and local Transport Minister Guy Opperman highlighted the urgent need for regulation, earlier this year stating: "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."
He added: "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."
The minister's comments reflected widespread concerns about uncontrolled pedicab operations in central London. The legislation received broad support in both Houses of Parliament and from London businesses.
The new regulations will establish a comprehensive licensing system similar to those used elsewhere in England and Wales. Drivers will be required to undergo criminal record and right to work checks before being permitted to carry passengers.
The framework includes mandatory insurance requirements and vehicle roadworthiness standards. TfL will have the authority to restrict pedicab presence in specific areas at certain times to manage congestion.
The regulations will enable enforcement action against those operating without a licence or outside licence conditions, including both civil sanctions and criminal offences.
In his letter to Westminster Council, TfL Commissioner Andy Lord emphasised the importance of developing workable rules that will remain effective long-term.
Now the transport body is seeking quantitative data about current pedicab operations, including numbers, locations, and peak operating times. But TfL has ruled out an interim scheme, noting that even simplified regulations would still require full public consultation and parliamentary approval.
The new regulations are set to transform pedicab operations in central London hotspots like Soho and Covent Garden. TfL's consultation in early 2025 will be a crucial step in finalising the regulatory framework.
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Following the consultation, the regulations will need to be laid before Parliament as a Statutory Instrument before taking effect. The changes aim to end what the Government has called "the chaos" in popular tourist areas.
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