Wolverhampton MP welcomes Government action to tackle ‘wild west’ e-bike parking

Wolverhampton West MP Warinder Juss has welcomed Government plans to tighten the rules on shared e-bike schemes, as ministers move to tackle nuisance parking and antisocial behaviour.

The Department for Transport has launched a consultation on a new licensing framework. Under the proposals, any operator wanting to run a shared cycle scheme on public land would need a licence from their local transport authority.

The plans would set national minimum standards, while giving local leaders the power to add their own requirements to suit their area.

Every licence would have to include measures on parking arrangements, antisocial behaviour and illegal use, fleet management and maintenance, and clearly defined operating areas. Councils could also consider extra conditions, such as data sharing, fees or helmet provision.

Shared e-bikes have grown in popularity as a way of making greener journeys, cutting congestion and getting people more active. But concerns have been raised in many communities about bikes blocking pavements, antisocial behaviour and inconsistent management of schemes.

Mr Juss said many people in Wolverhampton West use shared e-bikes because they are convenient, affordable and environmentally friendly, and that they have helped reduce traffic and support healthier lifestyles.

“But it is important that these schemes work for everyone,” he said. “I have been contacted by too many residents who have experienced problems with bikes being left in inappropriate places or concerns about antisocial behaviour.”

He added: “I welcome the action the Government is taking so that Wolverhampton West can continue to benefit from shared e-bike schemes while addressing the real concerns which local residents have.”

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said shared e-bike schemes had “revolutionised the way people travel around our towns and cities”, but needed to work with the communities where they operate.

“That’s why we are taking decisive action to give local leaders the power to stop nuisance parking, tackle antisocial behaviour and make journeys safer,” she said.

Mr Juss urged residents, businesses and community groups to take part in the consultation to help shape the future of shared cycle schemes.

“I would encourage anyone with views on these proposals to engage with the consultation so that we can achieve the right balance between supporting sustainable transport and protecting the quality of our public spaces,” he said.