Abandoned bicycles

We are responsible for removing bicycles from public areas if they are classed as abandoned.

A bicycle may be classed as abandoned, if it meets one or more of the following criteria:

  • It is secured in a dangerous way (for example, blocking the public highway)
  • It is secured to a council cycle rack and considered unroadworthy
  • When it is reported by a member of the public and assessed as unroadworthy or in a dangerous position
  • When it is noted as not having moved for a reasonable period of time – several weeks

A bicycle that is defined as unroadworthy will have sustained one or more of the following:

  • Flat front or rear tyres
  • Missing wheel(s)
  • Missing seat
  • Buckled front or rear wheels
  • Bent forks
  • Seized or damaged brakes
  • Rusted chain or gears
  • Missing chain

How do I report a bicycle as abandoned or claim my bicycle from the council?

All reports or requests should be made by phone on (01353) 665555 or by e-mail at ContactUs@eastcambs.gov.uk

What happens when a bicycle is abandoned?

Once a bicycle is identified as potentially abandoned, we will secure a notice to the bike, this warns that if the bicycle is not removed within 14 days it will be removed by the council as abandoned.

If there is anything about the bicycle that identifies the owner, the council will attempt to contact the owner and advise them that their bicycle is to be removed as abandoned.

Once a bicycle has been removed the council will store it for further 14 days, after which it will be recycled as scrap metal or used in another recycling scheme.

Can I claim my bicycle if I think it has been removed by the council?

Yes, any claimant should call or e-mail and will be asked to prove the bicycle is theirs by providing a description of the bicycle (for example, make, colour and model) and the location of where the bicycle was left.

If an individual cannot provide this basic information, the bicycle will not be released.