New rules which pedicabs could be forced to obey to operate on London’s streets have been laid out.
A crackdown on ‘nuisance’ pedicabs, also known as rickshaws, announced by the Tory government last year pledged to end ‘dangerous driving and antisocial behaviour’ and ‘eyewatering fares’ by drivers.
Ministers passed a law to ‘close a legal loophole’ that meant the industry, which is concentrated in tourist hotspots like Covent Garden, was unregulated.
The law gave Transport for London (TfL) powers to decide when, where and how many pedicabs can operate, and make sure they operate safely.
On Monday TfL announced it is holding a public consultation inviting people to ‘have their say’ on the matter.
The announcement detailed a number of proposals, including that:
All pedicab drivers would be required to have a one-year pedicab driver’s licence and would need to meet a set of safety standards such as criminal backgrounds checks.
Drivers would need to demonstrate they understand their role and responsibilities.
Drivers would be required to have appropriate insurance.
Regular vehicle inspections would be required to check the condition of the vehicle to ensure it remains safe and roadworthy.
TfL is also considering restrictions on noise levels, ‘particularly at certain times of day’.
Antisocial behaviour is covered by existing laws but Londoners have complained about drivers playing loud music and causing ‘disturbances’.
TfL also want ‘consistency’ in the way fares are charged, which is currently up to individual drivers.
Fares could be set across the board using a time-based, distance-based or zone-based system.
Helen Chapman, TfL’s Director of Licensing & Regulation, said: ‘Pedicabs are the only form of unregulated public transport in London and have an impact on the safety of the capital’s road network, as well as customers being charged well-documented rip-off fares, so we’re pleased to be able to launch this consultation.’
Will Norman, the Walking and Cycling Commissioner, added: ‘Pedicabs should be a fun and sustainable way for people to see London but, without regulation, some drivers are behaving unsafely or antisocially, and charging extortionate prices.’