Council mulling injunctions or banning orders for pedicab riders, following set of prosecutions

Westminster City Council is considering the use of injunctions or banning orders against repeat pedicab offenders, following a series of successful prosecutions under the Control of Pollution Act 1974.

Local Government Lawyer reported that the move comes ahead of Transport for London’s (TfL) forthcoming licensing regime, which is expected to impose stricter controls on pedicab operations across the capital.

Nine pedicab operators were recently found guilty of offences under the 1974 Act, with fines, costs, and victim surcharges ranging from £750 to £1,460. In total, the prosecutions resulted in more than £9,000 in penalties. The council has indicated that further legal measures may be pursued against persistent offenders to curb nuisance and protect the public.

TfL confirmed in June that it will proceed with its new regulatory framework for pedicabs, following a public consultation. The licensing scheme is scheduled to come into force in early 2026 and is expected to standardise operations and improve accountability within the sector.

In addition to the pedicab prosecutions, Westminster City Council also announced five successful cases against unlicensed street traders operating on Westminster Bridge. The traders, who were selling items such as peanuts and balloons, received convictions totalling £11,127.50.

Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children and Public Protection, Councillor Aicha Less, said that while TfL’s licensing scheme is being finalised, the council’s City Inspectors “continue to prosecute pedicab drivers and partner with our neighbours in Lambeth and in the Metropolitan Police to ensure unsuspecting tourists are not ripped off.”