Pedicab operators face a ‘crackdown’ on excessive fares, blocking pavements and playing loud music, Westminster City Council says.
The Council is targeting ‘nuisance’ drivers who are ‘preying on unsuspecting tourists wanting to enjoy London’s Landmarks’.
Each bike typically displays its average rates, with a 1.2 mile journey from Westminster Bridge to Victoria Station noted at £25 per person.
But with no regulated pricing for passengers, advertised prices are often not reflective of the final fare, with reports of 10-minute ride across the West End costing close to £500.
Additionally, pedicabs have no specific safety requirements, with no checks on drivers or vehicles, nor any need for insurance.
The council is demanding new legislation to help properly regulate pedicabs and says that it’s current powers are ‘limited’.
At present, it uses the Control of Pollution Act 1972, which allows them to put forward for prosecution anyone playing amplified music after 9:00 pm.
However, it is calling for the government to introduce a Transport Bill setting out clearer guidelines on licensing and regulation.
In the last year, the council’s campaign against pedicabs has secured convictions against 40 drivers, taken the details of over 80 drivers, and secured almost £30,000 in fines, costs, and victim surcharges.
Cllr Aicha Less, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Public Protection and Licensing said: “These ludicrous prices prey on unsuspecting tourists wanting to enjoy London’s Landmarks and reinforce the need for stricter controls on pedicabs.
“We are working with the Metropolitan Police and businesses to educate visitors of the dangers of using rip-off rickshaws.
“However, until there is support from the Department of Transport in the form of a Transport Bill, our crackdown on operators will only go so far. To put it simply, they need to be licensed.
“The issue is not exclusive to the West End, so people should be careful that getting a pedicab, which is unsafe and unlicensed can cost them more than their day out. Don’t be ripped off and get the bus, a taxi or use the underground.”
