NOISE NUISANCE: Westminster PROSECUTES eight pedicab riders with fines and costs of nearly £5,000

Image credit: Westminster City Council

Westminster City Council launched their first pedicab enforcement operation of 2023 with a renewed focus on educating pedicab riders as well as preventing noise nuisance.

This was followed by eight successful court prosecutions regarding offences from the end of last year. The prosecutions wracked up nearly £5,000 in fines and costs for those found guilty.

City inspectors joined Metropolitan Police officers on enforcement patrolling known hotspots in Soho, the West End, Mayfair, and outside Selfridges on Oxford Street.

Fortunately, those playing overly loud music are now a small minority. But prosecution against four riders will be pursued after operators were found blasting out a variety of pop, house, and rock music. As part of the new strategy, City Inspectors handed out leaflets to pedicab operators warning if they play create excessive noise after 9pm, they will be prosecuted. The leaflet also underlines the consequences if caught.

Police officers also shared information about the new Community Protection Notice used under the Metropolitan Police Act 1839. This aims to combat nuisances by persons on roads, pavements, and side streets. With these additional powers, it is hoped that pedicab riders begin to be more considerate to residents and visitors who want to enjoy Westminster’s vibrant night-time economy lawfully.

Following the enforcement operation, eight pedicab riders appeared on Wednesday 15 March at City of London Magistrates' Court. A total of £4,792 fines, costs, and victim surcharges were handed down to riders under the Control of Pollution Act 1974. These offences were from enforcement operations that took place last year.

On hearing the progress and successful prosecutions, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Public Protection and Licensing, Cllr Aicha Less, said: “It is fantastic to hear that last year’s progress made by our council officers has continued and I hope fines like those handed down continue.

“Despite our hard work, the lack of central government support is just not good enough. It leaves us tackling pedicabs with one hand tied behind our back. They need to give Transport for London more licensing powers.

“We will continue to do everything we can to stop rogue riders ruining the lives of residents and spoiling Westminster for our visitors.”