Tory MP Calls for Action on Illegally Parked Ice Cream Vans on Westminster Bridge

Richard Holden, the Conservative Shadow Transport Secretary, has called for a crackdown on illegally parked ice cream vans operating on London's Westminster Bridge. Holden expressed his concerns in the House of Commons, highlighting the persistent presence of these vehicles alongside other illicit activities such as conmen and unregulated pedicabs.

He voiced his frustration on X, stating, "It beggars belief that amongst a plethora of illegal activity, dodgy ice cream vans, alongside conmen and unregulated pedicabs are simply being allowed to pull up on Westminster Bridge, right next to Parliament and inside the Government's own secure zone and no-one does anything." Holden further criticized the current administration, adding, "Labour ministers and the Mayor are asleep at the wheel. They need to stop passing the buck, recognise the obvious security risk and get these vehicles off the bridge for good."

Despite the MP's call for action, the Cabinet Office responded that the issue was a matter for the police. The Home Office and the Met Police, in turn, directed the responsibility to Westminster Council.

Councillor Caroline Sargent, Westminster Council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Enforcement, acknowledged the desire for tourists to enjoy the bridge's views without harassment. She stated, "As the jurisdiction of the bridge is divided between Westminster and Lambeth, effective enforcement depends on close partnership working. We work hand in hand with Lambeth Council and the police to tackle persistent issues including rogue pedicabs, unlicensed trading, and antisocial behaviour."

This issue gains significance in light of the anti-terror barriers installed on Westminster Bridge following a 2017 attack. Vehicle stopping is prohibited on the bridge, which is marked with double red lines.

Lambeth Council has previously taken enforcement measures, including seizing ice cream vans and prosecuting traders. Jonathan Bartley, Lambeth's Cabinet Member for Safer, Thriving Neighbourhoods, commented that such actions are not sufficient, as "the fact that some traders simply return after being moved on, fined or prosecuted shows that enforcement as it stands is not sufficient."

A Transport for London spokesman noted that illegal parking on the bridge poses safety risks by obstructing the highway and potentially forcing pedestrians into cycle lanes. They indicated that enforcement action continues in coordination with the police to address this ongoing problem.