The government has opened a consultation on national rules for shared e-bike schemes, aiming to end what ministers call the "wild west" of hire bikes left blocking pavements, the Guardian reports. The Department for Transport review will look at standard parking rules to replace the current mix of local deals between operators such as Lime, Forest and Voi and individual councils.
It will also examine antisocial and illegal riding, including jumping red lights and use by underage or drunk riders, as well as limits on fleet sizes and whether operators should carry insurance so people hit by hired bikes can claim compensation. Councils and mayors could gain powers over rental fees, and companies may be required to share data. The prime minister, Andy Burnham, said communities should have more control over where the bikes are parked.
Source: The Guardian
