Residents believe that Amazon’s e-cargo delivery bikes cutting through parks are an “accident waiting to happen”.
The e-commerce company first introduced its electric delivery bikes in the UK this year, as part of a push to decarbonise Amazon’s UK transportation network.
Some people in the area have been outraged after seeing the bikes cut through Gladstone Park during its delivery routes, believing it is taking up the space for people walking on the park’s footpaths.
One park user, Sarah, said she has seen the bikes “several times every day” in November.
She shared her concerns over general e-bike usage and speeding cyclists that she regularly spots in Gladstone Park, adding that the “size and weight” of Amazon’s cargo bikes pose a “much greater danger than a common bicycle”.
She said: “As it stands now, walkers have to constantly have one eye over their shoulder looking for bicycles and these vehicles.
“Where can families and dogs play and run around if not in the local park? It is an accident waiting to happen.
“Brent Council are supposed to be promoting healthy living but this use by commercial entities, which is only expected to grow, it making the park like a main road.”
Krupesh Hirani, the London Assembly member for Brent and Harrow, claimed that Amazon’s delivery bikes have been seen “riding dangerously at speed” through the park.
“The one I tried to talk to this morning (November 26) sped away,” he said.
Dear @amazon - your buggies are riding dangerously at speed through Gladstone Park, Brent, London and as the drivers are being approached by park users they are speeding away past them. The one I tried to talk to this morning sped away.
— Krupesh Hirani AM for Brent and Harrow (@KrupeshHirani) November 26, 2022
Can you put a stop to it? pic.twitter.com/ulYwxB2kbb
Footage shared on social media has shown frustrated park goers taking matters into their own hands, with one woman seen protesting by sitting in front of an Amazon bike and refusing to let it to move.
Amazon has told the Brent & Kilburn Times that while their e-cargo bikes are allowed to travel on shared pedestrian and cycle paths, it is working closely with partners to avoid using these paths in Gladstone Park.
A spokesperson said: “Our micromobility hub in Wembley allows us to deliver customer packages with e-cargo bikes, which have zero-tail pipe emissions, reduce traffic congestion and help to improve air quality.
“We always look to be considerate to the communities where we operate, and we plan our operations to comply with all local traffic laws and regulations.”
VIDEO CREDIT: Richard Rowland / Cricklewood News Network (CNN)
A Brent Council spokesperson said: “We know how important it is for residents that parks are accessible for everyone. We take a lot of pride in our award-winning green spaces.
“We are looking into the concerns raised by residents and would like to thank them for bringing this to our attention."
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