On their last night in London, and for the second time on their trip, tourists Edward and Tiffany, from California, jumped into a pedal-powered taxi cab, commonly referred to as pedicabs. “We just want to experience all the culture of London and we love these,” Edward said, pointing at the bike decorated in faux fur and neon lights.
“I started off selling food in the streets, so for me to be able to support him, it’s important. I know he’ll probably have a family he’s supporting, so it’s nice to just give back to the people,” he said.
For many years pedicab cyclists have been regarded as the outlaws of the West End, operating with no regulation and no cap on prices.
Concerns have been raised about rogue operators scamming tourists into shelling out extortionate fares for journeys that are a short walk or would cost a couple of pounds on public transport, and over the loud music some play late into the night.
This week, King Charles, in his first king’s speech, set out the government’s plans for a bill that is expected to bring in a new licensing system for the three-wheeled rickshaw-style carriages, describing them as a “scourge” on the capital.
While most pedicab cyclists have welcomed legislation that would set fare controls and safety standards, some fear they could be out of business before it even becomes law.
The government’s pedicabs bill, if successful, would hand Transport for London (TfL) the power to implement a licensing regime for the vehicles. TfL would also be able to ensure the cyclists undergo criminal record checks and control fares, which would mean the cyclists do not determine the cost of the ride.
One cyclist based on Oxford Street said that while he was pleased with the proposed price limits, he was concerned he may have to find another job if they were too low. “I’m happy with it,” he said, “but I don’t know what they’re gonna do … I don’t know, maybe it’s gonna be suitable for me or maybe I’m gonna change to another job.
“I’m happy for everyone to have their licence, you know. People will know who the rider is and if anything happens, they will get that person. Now, it’s like a jungle. Anybody can do whatever he wants.”
The rider, who has been transporting people around London for more than 10 years, said very few overcharge because they want people to enjoy their experience so they come back. “Some people really enjoy it, they’re having fun on these … Most of my clients, they call me because I always give my phone number and then they come back and always, when they come back, I ask them ‘how much do you want to pay?’”
Adam Hug, the leader of Westminster city council, said: “We welcome this latest pledge of action on pedicabs which is something Westminster city council has campaigned on for years.
“Late-night blaring music from pedicabs has been a consistent irritant for Westminster residents and tourists have been fleeced by unregulated riders. However, this government has promised action before and not delivered so it is essential that this bill finally becomes law.”
Hug expressed disappointment that the bill did not include legislation on e-bikes and scooters, which he argues are also a safety issue in the area.
Another rider said he understood the safety concerns and would gladly get a licence, but said that if he had to reduce his fares drastically it would not be feasible to continue. “If you put in new rules, like licences, it’s very good, but charging, no. I charge a very poor price. Even taxis are more expensive than us.
“People come for the experience. Families, they love it because kids love it,” he said. “Better regulation will be nice for everybody. We have been waiting for like 15 years with no regulation so I think if someone like TfL controls it, it will be much better.”
A TfL spokesperson said: “Pedicabs are the only form of unregulated public transport in London, and as such impact the safety of the capital’s road network, as well as customers being charged well-documented rip-off fares. As they are unregulated, drivers and vehicles have not undergone any checks, which could potentially mean an increased danger to pedicab customers and other road users.
“TfL and the mayor have been lobbying for regulation in this area for many years and we support the introduction of new legislation which will allow pedicabs in London to be regulated to improve safety.”
• This article was amended on 12 November 2023 to make it clear that King Charles’s speech was laying out government plans rather than his own ideas.
