Lime bike ban: Hire e-bikes could be banned in London borough of Brent for causing ‘havoc’ on roads

A London borough has formally warned Lime that all e-bikes must be removed from the area if their safety concerns are not addressed by the end of October.

Brent Council told operator Lime that all 750 dockless bikes must be gone by 31 October 2024 if requests for improved safety measures are ignored.

Issues in the area include “inconsiderately parked” and “abandoned” e-bikes, presenting problems for pedestrians on the pavement.

The west London borough has hosted Lime bikes since 2019 as part of its sustainable and active travel promotion.

However, it is now requesting the introduction of dedicated e-bike parking bays, in-borough resources to manage day-to-day operations and a commitment from Lime to give back to the local community.

Current Brent Council advice on cycle parking warns Lime bike users to “not block footways as this can make it difficult for other pedestrians, especially those with mobility problems, to get around”.

According to the council, dedicated parking bays in areas with high footfall and ‘no parking zones’ would support the Transport for London (TfL) e-mobility contract planned for 2026.

Brent has also requested that Lime increase the £10 penalty for cyclists who abandon their bikes incorrectly.

Lime parking rules outline that e-bikes should be left “neatly to the side of the pavement” or in a parking bay with both wheels inside the markings parallel to other vehicles.

According to recent research by Lime, 49 per cent of Londoners between the ages of 18 and 34 rent an e-bike at least once a week.

Councillor Muhammed Butt, Leader of Brent Council, said: “Lime bikes left scattered across our streets are causing havoc for other road users, especially for pedestrians and disabled people. Residents have gone sour on Lime, and the council is receiving repeated, regular complaints about the bikes left across paths and roads in a haphazard way.

“This is putting unsustainable pressure on council staff who are spending time cleaning up after Lime. Something needs to change as the current situation is unsustainable and leaves a bitter taste in the mouth.”

The council said it is awaiting a response from Lime to the latest requests with its position before the pre-emptive 31 October…