Thousands of ebikes seized by London councils as anger rises over blocked paths

London boroughs have seized thousands of e-bikes this year due to improper parking, with figures up significantly compared to last year, according to a Guardian investigation. Operators cite a shortage of designated parking spaces as a key challenge, while councils argue for stronger central oversight to address the growing issue of bikes cluttering streets and obstructing pavements. The surge in seizures highlights mounting frustration among local authorities over the unregulated spread of e-bike hire schemes. With no clear solution in sight, the problem continues to disrupt urban mobility and public safety.

Operators blame lack of parking and councils bemoan lack of central regulation, as more than 3,000 badly parked bikes seizedLondon boroughs have seized at least 3,000 ebikes this year, a Guardian investigation has found, as hire companies face growing calls to stop bicycles littering streets and blocking pavements.Local authorities across the capital have seized 3,393 hazardously parked or abandoned ebikes so far this year, 23% higher than the number seized during all of 2025. Continue reading...