New enforcement powers to tackle badly parked e-bikes have been agreed by Ealing Council following concerns raised by residents.

The decision was agreed at a full council meeting earlier this week (Tuesday 13 October) after an increasing number of residents had reported that e-bikes are being left in places that make it harder for people to get around safely, particularly disabled people, older residents and parents with pushchairs.

Power to remove e-bikes

The new powers will allow council officers to remove e-bikes that are causing a nuisance, or creating a danger, and place them in storage. The council will also be able to recover the costs of removing those bikes from the companies that operate them, where appropriate.

The council has already been working with operators to improve parking standards. This includes adding more designated parking bays across the borough, helping operators clear full bays more quickly, and making it harder for riders to leave bikes outside approved parking areas.

Making e-bikes work for everyone

Council leader Peter Mason said: “We know residents are frustrated when e-bikes are left blocking pavements or creating hazards.

“E-bikes can be a useful way to travel, but they must work for everyone. These new powers will help us keep streets safe and accessible for all residents.”

Councillor Dominic Moffitt, the council’s cabinet member for climate action, said: “E-bikes are an increasingly popular way to travel in the borough. They can help keep you fit, cut traffic and reduce pollution.

“Most people use rental e-bikes responsibly, but badly parked bikes can cause real problems. We are not willing to sit by, and so will help make sure pavements and roads stay clear and accessible for all.”

The council will now update its e-bike enforcement policy and continue working with operators to improve parking compliance across the borough.

Residents can report badly parked e-bikes through the Love Clean Streets app.