News & Resources

The Ombudsman, Mr Jack Chan, today (12 August) announced the launch of a full investigation to examine the mechanism of regulating illegal bicycle parking caused by bicycle rental shops.

The Office of The Ombudsman recently received a public complaint against the Home Affairs Department (“HAD”), the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (“FEHD”), the Lands Department (“LandsD”) and the Transport Department (“TD”). The complainant alleged that some bicycle rental shops in the New Territories persistently place a large number of bicycles along pedestrian walkways outside the shops, obstructing, even endangering, pedestrians. The complainant has notified HAD, requesting that the department take follow-up actions with other relevant departments. However, the problem has remained unresolved.

Mr Chan said, “In addressing the problem of illegal bicycle parking, the relevant enforcement departments are taking appropriate enforcement and clearance actions in accordance with the law, depending on the location of the bicycles. When necessary, interdepartmental joint operations are being carried out. The departments involved generally include the relevant District Offices under HAD, FEHD, LandsD and TD, etc.  However, the problem persists and has even worsened. There is public demand for bicycle rental services in various districts. It is, therefore, worth exploring how bicycle rental services can be provided to enable cyclists without inconveniencing pedestrians and causing accidents. In this light, I have decided to launch a full investigation to examine the mechanism adopted by the Government to regulate illegal bicycle parking caused by bicycle rental shops in various districts and identify areas for improvement. Recommendations will be made accordingly.”

The Ombudsman welcomes views from members of the public on this topic. Written submissions should reach the Office of The Ombudsman by 12 September 2025:

Address:    30/F, China Merchants Tower, Shun Tak Centre, 168–200 Connaught Road Central, Hong Kong

Fax:            2882 8149

Email:        cid-bicycleparking@ombudsman.hk

Office of The Ombudsman

For media enquiries, please contact the External Relations Section at enquiry@ombudsman.hk.