The oversight of pedicabs has passed another significant milestone following a consultation that revealed “overwhelming support” among participants for implementing new regulations, according to Transport for London (TfL).
TfL, responsible for the capital’s transport system, noted that these rickshaw-style bicycles represent the only type of unregulated public transport available in the city.
Will Norman, the commissioner for walking and cycling in London, acknowledged that while pedicabs offer a “fun and sustainable” travel option, some drivers have exhibited “unsafe or anti-social behavior” and charged excessively high fares.
TfL indicated that it will continue to refine the proposed regulations, which may introduce requirements for licenses and insurance. However, the London Pedicab Welfare Association raised concerns that such measures might prove to be “burdensome.”
Following the enactment of the Pedicabs (London) Act last year, TfL has gained authority to establish and enforce essential rules and standards.
Among the insights gathered from the consultation, which attracted 7,500 responses, an overwhelming 95% agreed that pedicab drivers should be subjected to UK criminal background checks, aligning their qualifications with those of taxi and private hire vehicle operators.
Regarding the use of music and other audio in pedicabs, 96% of respondents believed that there should be regulations governing it. More than 2,400 comments specifically addressed music in the vehicles.
Out of 7,699 survey participants, 477 (7%) identified themselves as users of pedicabs, with three-quarters reporting they had felt unsafe during their rides.
The primary reasons cited for utilizing pedicabs included trips to and from bars, sightseeing, and attending theatre performances.
Helen Chapman, TfL’s director of licensing and regulation, remarked: “Pedicabs can offer a distinctive and environmentally friendly perspective of the capital. Nonetheless, they affect road safety, and currently operate without regulation.”
Twenty-five individuals identified as pedicab drivers contributed to the consultation, with most having been in the profession for two years or more.
The London Pedicab Welfare Association (LWPA), which provided written feedback during the consultation, expressed support for fair regulations. Their response noted mixed feelings regarding TfL’s decision to require a UK driving license for pedicab drivers.
“While the aim behind this requirement is to enhance passenger safety and provide regulation for the industry, it poses difficulties for pedicab drivers lacking a driving license,” the association stated.
They warned that such a stipulation could be “burdensome and time-consuming, potentially hindering their operational capabilities” in a market characterized by seasonal demand.
Mr. Norman stated: “We are considering the feedback and remarks received to ensure that the upcoming changes benefit everyone involved.”
