London’s dockless shared e-bike sector continues to face parking management issues and differences in local arrangements. According to an investigation by The Guardian, London boroughs have seized 3,393 shared e-bikes so far this year because of hazardous parking or abandonment, 23% more than the total recorded for 2025. Lime accounted for more than 2,000 seizures, followed by Forest with 978 and Voi with 103. The figures were provided by 19 local authorities responding to freedom of information requests.

Dockless e-bike operations are currently managed largely at borough level, with operators working under different local arrangements. London Assembly data identifies Bolt, Forest, Lime and Voi as the four current dockless hire bike operators in London.

Parking remains a key issue between boroughs and operators. Local authorities have raised concerns about e-bikes obstructing pavements and public space, while operators have argued that the provision of designated parking bays has not kept pace with demand. Lime said most of its seizures occurred around overcrowded parking bays, while Forest also pointed to insufficient parking capacity.

The English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act 2026 received Royal Assent in April. The legislation introduces a licensing framework for on-street micromobility services, with Transport for London (TfL) designated as the licensing authority for Greater London. The relevant powers will require secondary legislation and guidance before they can come into force.

Once the relevant powers come into force, TfL will be able to establish a London-wide licensing system for dockless shared e-bikes, with requirements covering areas such as parking, safety and accessibility. The detailed regulatory framework will depend on forthcoming government regulations and guidance.

The differences between borough-level arrangements are already evident in Ealing. Earlier this year, Ealing Council signed memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with Forest and Lime but did not select Voi. Voi has continued operating in the borough, arguing that there is currently no statutory licensing regime requiring council permission for dockless e-bikes operating on public highways. Ealing Council said it would continue using existing arrangements while awaiting the proposed TfL-led London-wide licensing system.

The London Assembly Transport Committee is scheduled to examine dockless hire bike regulation on October 8. The investigation will consider the regulatory powers that should be given to TfL and potential requirements covering fleet size, vehicle maintenance, data sharing, parking infrastructure and operator fees.

Image: Lime