Ombudsman looks into regulatory scheme over illegal parking issue by bike rental shops

The Office of the Ombudsman investigates the regulatory mechanism addressing the illegal bike parking issue at bike rental shops, following a public complaint.

The public appeal is proposed against the Home Affairs Department, the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, the Lands Department and the Transport Department. 

The complaint stated that bike rental shops in the New Territories have been leaving a large number of bikes on pedestrian walkways outside the shops, causing obstruction and endangering public safety. 

The complainant claimed to have reported the problem to the Home Affairs Department before, but no amendments were made. 

The Ombudsman Jack Chan Jick-chi said bike rental services are needed in communities, but the problem will continue to deteriorate if no changes are made. 

Chan noted that the thorough investigation will explore maintaining a convenient bike rental service for the public, while avoiding incidents and affecting pedestrians from happening. 

The regulatory mechanisms adopted by the government will also be reviewed for improvements.

(Natasha Ng)