Dangerous cycling in these Birmingham city centre areas could see cyclists fined £1,000

The council is considering the introduction of a Public Space Protection Order to combat anti-social behaviour and this month launched a public consultation.

In particular, it wants to tackle inconsiderate and dangerous riding, cycling, skateboarding, riding a manual scooter and riding an e-bike or e-scooter.

The PSPO would mean anyone entering the pedestrian zone within the restricted area must not ride in a dangerous, careless or inconsiderate manner and/or in a manner likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress.

That includes but is not limited to aggressive riding, riding at speed, weaving between pedestrians or performing stunts.

The restricted area would include Centenary Square, New Street and part of Edgbaston Street.

The council previously insisted the order would not signal a “ban on cycling” and acknowledged in a consultation document that “mixed feelings surrounding this issue”.

“There will not be 100 per cent agreement,” it said. “Some cycling groups have already utilised media outlets to try to curtail any consultation regarding this subject, citing such programmes as active travel etc.

“However, the council’s travel plans and active travel includes walking, cycling and public transport.

“Government guidance on these matters indicates pedestrians should be given higher regard due to the safety implications where mixed road use is allowed.

“This is supported by recent changes to the highway code.”

It said over a five-day period in September 2024, local officers were asked to record incidents of poor riding within the zone.

They included two school children on bikes riding at speed and almost hitting pedestrians as well as a male cycling at speed along New Street, causing people to jump out of the way.

One complaint, included within the document, added: “Over the past few years, I have noticed an increase in people racing around town on bikes.

“I feel very strongly they are a danger and menace to pedestrians, especially children, animals and the elderly.”

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It is a criminal offence to breach the requirements of a PSPO and doing so may result in a fine, according to the consultation document.

If the fine is not paid, the offence may go to court and lead to a penalty of up to £1,000.

The council said the PSPO was designed to provide a “swift enforcement approach” to offending individuals and ensure they were dealt with immediately.

It said bicycle, manual scooter, e-bike or e-scooter could be pushed or walked through the restricted area and an exemption would apply to any of the emergency services carrying out their duties.

The council is proposing the PSPO order be in force for three years. The consultation, which can be found on the Birmingham Be Heard website, closes on January 31, 2025.