Politics & Council · Reading
Reading Council acts to curb anti-social e-bike and e-scooter use
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Local councillors have labelled the misuse of e-bikes and e-scooters on pavements a 'scourge', leading to a targeted enforcement crackdown in Reading.
Reading Borough Council is intensifying its efforts to tackle the anti-social use of e-bikes and e-scooters, with officials describing the issue as a significant nuisance on the town's pavements and pedestrianised areas. The debate follows concerns raised by former Mayor and councillor Tony Page regarding the impact of these vehicles on public safety and local infrastructure.
Addressing a full council meeting on 13 October, Councillor Finn McGoldrick, lead for community safety, confirmed that the local authority is collaborating closely with Thames Valley Police to address the problem. A key part of this strategy is the application of a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), which was introduced in May. The order grants authorities the power to engage with riders whose behaviour causes alarm, distress or nuisance in the town centre and other designated hotspots.
The council is adopting a graduated approach to enforcement. This begins with education and verbal warnings to encourage compliance before escalating to stricter measures. Since the PSPO was implemented, 13 warning notices have been issued. Early data suggests this intervention has been effective, as the council reports no repeat offenders among those who received initial warnings.
However, the council remains frustrated by the complexity of current legislation. Cllr McGoldrick acknowledged that local authorities are operating within a patchwork of rules, particularly regarding the distinction between legal, low-powered e-bikes and illegal, high-powered variants that are often sold online or in shops. The council is now working alongside Reading’s Labour MPs to lobby the national government for clearer legislation to better control the supply and use of these vehicles.
Under current UK law, e-bikes with motors of 250 watts or less that do not assist the rider beyond 15.5 mph are legal for use. Any bike exceeding these specifications is classified as illegal for use on public roads. E-scooters remain illegal for use on public pavements and roads unless they are part of an authorised hire scheme or are being ridden on private land.
For those caught repeatedly breaching the PSPO, the council is prepared to issue Fixed Penalty Notices. The local authority maintains that the combined efforts of the police and council officers are essential to improving public confidence and ensuring that Reading’s shared pedestrian spaces remain safe for all residents and visitors.
Source: Reading Chronicle · View original