London pedicab rules to curb high fares and loud music

Transport for London will introduce licences, safety checks and a capped fare structure for pedicabs, due to take effect on October 30, to address complaints about high charges and loud music.

Transport for London is introducing the capital's first formal rules for pedicabs, placing new requirements on operators and drivers. The move follows complaints about very high charges, noise and safety issues in unregulated services. Under the proposals, licences, safety testing and language checks will be required, and a maximum fare structure has been proposed. The measures are intended to standardise operations across London and are scheduled to begin later this year. Key details: - Licensing and qualifications will be required for drivers and operators, including English language proficiency, a safety examination and at least a driving theory test certificate. - Proposed fare cap: a maximum base fare of £5, then £1 per minute for the first passenger and £3 for each additional passenger. - Proposed fees include a £100 vehicle licence and a £114 driver licence, each valid for one year. - New standards would ban external audio, require pedicabs to be road legal with numberplates, and mandate regular safety and roadworthiness checks. - Operators would need premises in London and must carry out fire risk assessments and basic staff DBS checks. - The licensing regime and maximum journey fares are due to come into force from October 30 this year. Summary: The rules are intended to bring consistent operational and safety standards to pedicabs and respond to reported incidents of excessive fares and disruptive noise. The licensing and fare cap are scheduled to start on October 30, and TfL has said the fares will be reviewed as the sector evolves.