Agenda item

To consider the report of the Executive Director, Environment (NB – appendices 2 and 3 are non-public)

The Committee considered the report of the Executive Director, Environment.

The Committee noted that a co-ordinated penalty arrangement was desirable to deal with misuse of bikes, noting also the relative paucity of parking spaces in the west part of the City. The Committee heard that bike parking provision was to be improved.

Noting the disparity in operators’ performance and the recommendation to extend Lime’s review period in the light of that, the Committee discussed means of enforcement and the following points were made:

-       Bikes (and e-scooters) tend to fall over when parked

-       It is incumbent on operators to ensure that bikes are parked safely, particularly in respect of pavement-users with disabilities and those using wheelchairs and buggies

-       Operators already fine users who do not park the bikes properly, though some users appear to be indifferent to these charges

-       Approaches vary across neighbouring boroughs on enforcement, and it would be resource-intensive to co-ordinate any such measure

-       There is scope for enhancing sanctions for misuse, and it would be desirable for the Corporation to work constructively with operators on the issue 

RESOLVED, That the Committee

1.    Agree to continue to approve dockless cycle hire operators in the City, renewing HumanForest’s status and extending the review period on Lime’s approval status until May 2023 (Option 2, paragraphs 39 to 45); and

2.    Delegate powers relating to changes to the structure of voluntary financial contributions from dockless cycle hire operators to the Executive Director Environment in consultation with the Chairmen and Deputy Chairmen of the Planning & Transportation Committee and the Streets & Walkways Sub-Committee.