PEDICABS: 45 reported for prosecution and hundreds moved on for blocking pavements in London
Since operations to crackdown on pedicabs in the capital began in November last year, more than 45 pedicab riders have been reported for prosecution and hundreds have been moved on for causing accessibility issues by blocking the pavement.
Most recently, three pedicab drivers were prosecuted by Westminster City Council under the Control of Pollution Act 1974 at the City of London Magistrates Court.
Fines, costs, and victim surcharges totalling £1,273 were issued to three individuals after they were found to have played excessively loud music late at night disturbing residents and businesses and having a negative impact on the health and well-being of residents, businesses and visitors.
The fines were more than double the sums given in similar offences earlier in the year.
Joint operations between Westminster City Council and the Metropolitan Police to tackle nuisance pedicab drivers continue, especially in areas where riders are found to be causing the most issues including Covent Garden, Soho, Leicester Square, Chinatown, and Mayfair.
Raj Mistry, Executive Director of Environment and City for Westminster City Council said: “Pedicab operators have caused serious problems across Westminster for many years by playing loud music, not respecting the Highway Code, charging excessive fares and blocking pavements which cause considerable issues with accessibility.
“This judgement marks a significant change in the severity of fines and hopefully this pattern will continue as more cases are heard in court.
“Westminster City Council’s teams will continue to work with the police to use our existing powers to ensure that residents and visitors can enjoy the city safely.”
