London cyclists who run red lights face harsher penalties under crackdown

London cyclists who run red lights are set to face tougher penalties under a new crackdown, as the City of London weighs using community protection warnings to curb what officials describe as dangerous, antisocial and nuisance cycling in the capital. The approach would allow officers to issue fines that exceed the standard £50 fixed penalty notices.

A paper presented to the City of London Corporation's Streets and Walkways Sub-Committee this week outlined the plan and cited public complaints about cyclists who ignore red lights at busy junctions, the unsafe riding of e-bikes, and bikes ridden on pavements and pedestrianised areas. The broader context shows a cycling boom in London, spurred by Tube strikes and traffic jams. This month saw a 75% increase in the use of Lime and Forest bikes during the latest industrial action. Some residents have described the recent surge in cycling as threatening to turn London into a city reminiscent of Hanoi.

At the meeting, Common Councillor Jacqueline Webster asked whether more could be done to promote a culture of courteousness among cyclists. Residents have raised concerns about the dockless bike parking and its impact on streets. Bruce McVean, the City of London Corporation's assistant director for policy and projects, said progress is ongoing with e-bike rental companies and Transport for London, but more work remains to be done. Things are getting better, but there is more to do, he added.

Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan has launched a campaign urging cyclists to obey the law. Transport for London has rolled out a poster that reminds riders to stop at red lights and to follow the Highway Code. A London-based survey found that only 16% of respondents could correctly identify five cycling rules, including whether cyclists should stop at zebra crossings and red lights. The finding underscores ongoing safety concerns as cyclists and pedestrians remain at risk on London roads compared with drivers.

Officials say the crackdown is part of broader public-safety efforts tied to ongoing collaboration with e-bike rental operators and TfL. The City of London Corporation is seeking ways to promote a culture of safe, courteous cycling while addressing issues such as dockless-bike parking and enforcement at busy junctions. The initiative arrives as London winds down a period of heightened cycling traffic during strikes and related disruptions, signaling that authorities intend to keep pace with a city that has seen a sustained shift toward two-wheeled transport.