Residents in Hackney are facing an accessibility crisis as discarded for-hire electric bikes routinely block wheelchair-friendly routes in the borough.
Local resident Tracy was left shaken after her husband was trapped on the pavement for several minutes after the accessible path was blocked.
She said: “He literally has to wait for someone to come and physically help him because he can’t get round them – his wheelchair can only cross at level junctions. It’s humiliating and dangerous.”
Another resident, Ross, says he now avoids going out alone. He said: “I keep getting stuck because of these bikes. They park right in the middle of the pavement, and I no longer have the confidence to go out. My chair cost thousands – it’s not worth the risk.”
“I no longer have the confidence to go out.”
Transport Charity Collaborative Mobility UK reported that in March 2025, the number of for-hire bikes in London had reached 47,504.
Elderly residents are also now at risk. Charlie, of Gore Street, describes how abandoned bikes force those with Zimmer frames or mobility scooters onto rough or unsafe roads.
Charlie’s elderly neighbour, Sue, who suffers from Alzheimer’s, relies on her mobility scooter to get around. He said: “People have to manually pick the bikes up and move them for her to get past. It’s incredibly dangerous.”
Residents accuse Hackney Council of ignoring repeated complaints, saying the borough’s green transport push has created major accessibility barriers.
A spokesperson for Hackney Council said the borough is “aware of residents’ concerns” and is working to improve responsible parking and ensure pavements remain accessible.
Currently completing MA Newspaper Journalism at City st George's, University of London.