City of London police offer safety video instead of £50 fine for cyclists

City of London police have introduced a new roadside scheme that allows cyclists who run red lights to avoid a £50 penalty by watching a safety video. The initiative, called “stop, look, listen, change,” aims to educate riders on the dangers of ignoring traffic signals.

Offending cyclists are taken to a temporary roadside area, described as a “sin bin,” where they view an educational film. This film includes testimonies from visually impaired road users who are disproportionately affected by cyclists disregarding traffic rules. Rob McTaggart, media and engagement manager at City of London police, stated that the scheme aims to use the time cyclists save by running a light to educate them on road safety. He added that the police have observed no difference in behaviour between those riding hired e-bikes and those on traditional bicycles.

Early Success of the Initiative

The scheme has shown early signs of effectiveness. On its first day of operation, 30 cyclists were stopped by police within the initial 20 minutes. According to City of London police, none of these cyclists chose to pay the fine. When the “sin bin” was first launched two weeks prior to the reported day, around 70 cyclists were intercepted within 90 minutes. In that initial period, all stopped riders opted to watch the safety video rather than accept a monetary penalty.

Sgt Stuart Ford, who helped develop the scheme, indicated that it was inspired by the Exchanging Places initiative, which aims to increase understanding of road risks between different road users. Ford acknowledged receiving numerous complaints from the public regarding cyclists jumping red lights and their general behaviour within the city.

Perspectives from Vulnerable Road Users and Campaigners

The initiative has garnered support from organisations representing visually impaired individuals. Hyacinth Malcolm, who is blind, expressed dismay at the behaviour of some cyclists. Sarah Leadbetter, a disability activist with visual impairments, highlighted the dangers posed by cyclists running red lights, stating that footways are not safe for disabled people. She relies on her guide dog and pedestrian crossing aids but cannot be certain of her safety due to cyclists suddenly passing through red lights.

Sarah Gayton, street access campaign coordinator from the National Federation of the Blind UK, commended the educational approach but suggested that the fine should be increased to £300 and that further government action is needed. Tom Fyans, CEO of the London Cycling Campaign, supported the scheme over monetary fines, stating that educating cyclists about their impact on others is more effective than punishment. However, Fyans also argued that the focus on cyclists is disproportionate, with cars and speeding drivers posing a greater danger on London's roads. He called for more cycle and pedestrian-friendly urban designs.

What Happens Next

City of London police have indicated a significant national interest in their scheme, with a "huge appetite" for similar initiatives. The long-term impact and potential expansion of the "stop, look, listen, change" programme remain to be seen, but initial results suggest a positive reception from both authorities and many road users.