London boroughs seize 3,393 e-bikes in 2026

London boroughs have confiscated 3,393 e-bikes this year, marking a 23% increase from the entirety of 2025. This surge in seizures comes as local authorities grapple with the proliferation of dockless hire schemes and their impact on public spaces.

Operator Breakdown and Usage Statistics

Data obtained by The Guardian through a Freedom of Information request reveals that Lime bikes were involved in over 2,000 seizures. Forest ranked second with 978 confiscated bikes, followed by Voi with 103. Dockless e-bikes now contribute to one in every ten of London's estimated 1.5 million daily cycle journeys, according to Transport for London figures.

Safety Concerns and Campaigner Appeals

Campaign groups have voiced growing concerns about the safety implications of e-bikes left unattended on pavements. Erik Matthies, policy lead at the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), stated that the increasing number of abandoned bikes is "overwhelming" for blind and partially sighted individuals, as well as elderly people and wheelchair users. He reported instances of collisions and injuries resulting from pavement obstructions, with some blind individuals now avoiding independent travel.

Zak Viney of the campaign group Living Streets added that irresponsibly parked e-bikes significantly impede safe walking and wheeling on streets.

Calls for Unified Regulation

Councils across the capital have highlighted the difficulties posed by a fragmented regulatory approach. James Slater, a councillor in Camden, argued for a unified London-wide strategy, noting the challenges of differing policies among 32 boroughs and potential inconsistencies for operators working across borough boundaries.

Operator Response and Future Controls

E-bike operators, however, contend that councils need to increase investment in dedicated parking facilities. A spokesperson for Lime stated that while the vast majority of riders end trips responsibly, a small fraction lead to seizures. They acknowledged that parking infrastructure has not kept pace with the demand for rental e-bike services. The Mayor of London's office indicated it is collaborating with TfL and the Department for Transport to introduce necessary controls swiftly, emphasising that safety improvements must be central to any future regulations.