Westminster Bridge faces crackdown on illegal traders

Shadow Transport Secretary Richard Holden has called for a stringent crackdown on illegal activities including parked ice cream vans, unregulated pedicabs, and conmen operating on Westminster Bridge. Mr Holden raised concerns in the House of Commons regarding the persistent law-breaking at the prominent tourist location, which attracts a large number of visitors annually.

Security Concerns on the Bridge

Westminster Bridge, a site of significant historical and security importance, had anti-terror barriers installed following a 2017 extremist attack that resulted in five fatalities, including Pc Keith Palmer. The bridge is subject to strict regulations, with no vehicles allowed to stop due to double red lines. Despite these measures, Mr Holden expressed disbelief that illegal operations continue within the Government's secure zone.

Mr Holden stated, “It beggars belief that amongst a plethora of illegal activity, dodgy ice cream vans, alongside conmen and unregulated pedicabs are simply being allowed to pull up on Westminster Bridge, right next to Parliament and inside the Government’s own secure zone and no-one does anything.” He criticised the current approach, suggesting ministers were avoiding responsibility and failing to address the security risks posed by the ongoing illegal trade.

Joint Enforcement Efforts

Westminster Council, through its Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Enforcement, Cllr Caroline Sargent, confirmed its commitment to ensuring visitors can enjoy the bridge without harassment or scams. She highlighted that effective enforcement requires close cooperation between Westminster and Lambeth councils, as well as the police, to tackle issues such as rogue pedicabs, unlicensed trading, and anti-social behaviour. Joint operations have previously resulted in fines, seizure of goods, and prosecutions of illegal traders.

Jonathan Bartley, Lambeth's Cabinet Member for Safer, Thriving Neighbourhoods, acknowledged the councils' enforcement actions, including the seizure of ice cream vans and prosecutions for illegal trading. However, he noted that the persistence of some traders returning after penalties indicates that current enforcement measures may not be sufficient to disrupt the lucrative illegal trade.

A spokesperson for Transport for London stated that illegal parking on the bridge can create safety hazards by obstructing the highway and forcing pedestrians into cycle lanes. TfL confirmed ongoing monitoring and enforcement against illegally stopping or parked vehicles, in collaboration with the police.