• I WROTE to four dockless bike operators last week following a wave of bikes being abandoned on Westminster’s pavements and roads.

There is not currently an agreement in place for dockless bikes to park in Westminster, and the city council has been inundated with complaints about blocked pavements, particularly around Underground stations.

Abandoned bikes are a safety hazard to pedestrians, particularly to those with mobility issues or visual impairment.

We are supportive of and excited about new forms of transport that contribute to a cleaner environment and are currently engaged in a trial on e-scooters. However the current free-for-all on dockless bikes is unsustainable.

Residents have reported these bikes blocking pathways, roads and even emergency access points, causing significant safety concerns. This is particularly the case for disabled and visually impaired residents and visitors to the city.

I’ve written to Tier, Lime, Human Forest and Dott, urging them to take responsibility, and have asked why they appear to allow their bikes to be dumped anywhere without a thought for the mess they leave behind.

We should not have to clear up their mess and our residents should not foot the bill.

CLLR PAUL DIMOLDENBERG
Cabinet Member for City Management & Air Quality