Council supports police crackdown on illegal e-bikes on our streets
Published: Wednesday, September 30, 2026
Wandsworth's Cabinet Member for Transport joined Metropolitan Police officers in Putney this week as they carried out a targeted enforcement operation against illegal and dangerously modified e-bikes.
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The operation, carried out on Putney High Street and surrounding roads, formed part of ongoing efforts to tackle anti-social and dangerous riding, improve public safety and respond to concerns raised by local residents and businesses.
Councillor Nick Austin, Cabinet Member for Transport, spent time with officers who were carrying out enforcement activity and saw first-hand the challenges posed by illegal vehicles that don't comply with road safety regulations.
He said: "Most people who use e-bikes do so responsibly and use them to get from A to B. But I know that residents are rightly concerned about the small minority of riders who ignore the rules, ride dangerously, use modified bikes at excessive speeds, or put pedestrians at risk on the pavement or at crossings.
"I was pleased to join local police officers in Putney to see the work they are doing to tackle these issues and remove illegal vehicles from our streets."
Councillor Caroline de La Soujeole, Cabinet Member for Enforcement, said: "We welcome this proactive work by the Metropolitan Police and will continue supporting enforcement activity wherever possible. By working closely with our police partners we can help tackle anti-social behaviour, improve public safety and make it clear that irresponsible and illegal use of e-bikes will not be tolerated in Wandsworth."
The Metropolitan Police have been stepping up action against illegal e-bikes and e-scooters across London, with officers targeting vehicles that have been modified to exceed legal speed limits or operate without the required insurance, registration and licensing.
The operation comes as Wandsworth Council continues to develop new measures to improve the management of hire e-bikes across the borough. The council is preparing to introduce a Fair Use Charter for operators and strengthen enforcement activity against bikes that cause obstruction or create hazards on the public highway.
The council is encouraging anyone with concerns about dangerous cycling, illegal e-bikes or anti-social behaviour to report incidents to the Metropolitan Police.
More information
Read the rules on e-bikes on gov.uk
Check the London Fire Brigade website on how to charge your e-bike or scooter safely