TfL has published the results of its consultation into pedicabs, and shared its initial plans to regulate them in the future.
More than 7,500 people took part in the consultation, with 75% of respondents saying they don't feel safe using the cycle-powered passenger vehicles, which are currently completely unregulated. Wondering how many of the people using pedicabs are Londoners, rather than tourists? Of the 7,699 total responses received, 6,369 provided their home postcode, and of these, 89% gave a London postcode. And who knows, perhaps tightening up the rules around pedicabs might encourage more Londoners to use them.
TfL is now planning to regulate them for the first time, to ensure they are driven and maintained professionally and safely. New rules could come into force early next year. Proposals for what these regulations will look like are currently being compiled, and these will be the subject of a further consultation before they are finalised.
Issues being addressed include the need for pedicab drivers to pass UK criminal background checks (as taxi drivers must) and for them to have insurance for carrying passengers. Neither of these are currently a requirement. A potential fare structure is also being discussed, with the intention of eliminating incidents where (predominantly) tourists are ripped off with huge fares for short journeys.
Some issues surrounding pedicabs, such as loud noise and anti-social behaviour are already covered by existing legislation and can be enforced by the Metropolitan Police and local councils. 96% of survey respondents want to see music from pedicabs controlled more tightly.
TfL will take lead responsibility for enforcing any new regulations, with costs covered through pedicab licence fees. View the full results of the consultation on the TfL website. Look out for the next consultation later this year.
