E-bikes: Transport for London may take action against operators

Forest’s co-founder Caroline Seton called for government legislation so that TfL could manage a consistent, London-wide approach to dockless e-bikes.

“As the only London-based dockless bike operator, Forest is deeply committed to creating a city that works for everyone,” she said.

“That’s why we introduced virtual parking bays long before they were mandated and have always incentivised responsible parking among our users.”

The Department for Transport said it was “carefully considering” how it could help local authorities tackle the issue of e-bikes being parked “haphazardly”.

A Lime spokesperson said the company was committed to working with London boroughs and TfL to ensure that e-bikes were parked safely and appropriately.

“This decision by TfL underlines the urgent need for increased parking areas across the capital.

“This includes land owned by TfL so that the space around transport hubs remains clear and safe for pedestrians,” they said.

“This year we have invested £1m in a Parking Infrastructure Fund to create more dedicated e-bike parking, and we employ over 250 people on London’s streets who help remove or tidy bikes parked in the wrong places.”