A Major Step Forward: TfL Consultation Launched on Pedicab Regulation
Heart of London Business Alliance (HOLBA) have been campaigning for many years to bring long-overdue regulation to the pedicab industry in central London. Today, we’re delighted to see real progress as Transport for London (TfL) launches a six-week public consultation (link) on detailed proposals for a new licensing regime.
Why This Matters
From extortionate fares to noise nuisance and safety concerns, unregulated pedicabs have been a long-standing challenge for central London. For years, we’ve been calling for a fair, consistent framework to ensure that pedicabs operate safely and professionally, and TfL’s proposals could potentially see licensing begin in early 2026.
What’s Being Proposed
TfL’s consultation covers a comprehensive set of measures, including:
- Criminal and medical checks for drivers, alongside driver assessments
- Annual vehicle inspections, covering brakes, tyres, lights, and batteries for electrically assisted pedicabs
- Clear, regulated fares based on journey time, with a minimum fare to protect passengers from overcharging
- Noise reduction measures, including a ban on amplified audio systems
- Visible identification, with driver ID badges and licence plates on every pedicab
- Rules ensuring drivers only stop where it’s safe for passengers, pedestrians, and other road users
- These steps would bring much-needed order and accountability to the industry, while still allowing pedicabs to play a positive role as a sustainable and fun way to experience London.
Have Your Say
The consultation is open now and runs until Monday 20 October 2025. Heart of London Business Alliance strongly encourages everyone — residents, businesses, and visitors — to take part and help shape the final regulations.
Read the proposal and respond to the consultation here.
Looking Ahead
If these proposals move forward as planned, new regulations could be with us by early 2026.
We will continue to work closely with TfL and our partners to make sure these new rules deliver meaningful change for our district.
Ros Morgan, Chief Executive, Heart of London Business Alliance:
"HOLBA have long campaigned for proper regulation and licensing of pedicabs in central London, so today’s announcement is a major step forward. Our priority is ensuring the scheme delivers real improvements in safety and helps to cut criminal activity and anti social behaviour — keeping the West End a world-class destination."
Helen Chapman, TfL’s Director of Licensing & Regulation, said:
“We’ve listened carefully to the thousands of responses we received earlier this year, and we’re now setting out detailed proposals for how pedicabs should operate and be regulated in London. We’re committed to working with the pedicab industry and the public to ensure that regulation is proportionate, enforceable and deliver real improvements for everyone. We'd encourage everyone to have their say in the next six weeks before we analyse the feedback and make new regulations as early as possible next year.”