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Yesterday evening saw the biggest demo yet from bikers who are angered at Westminster City Council's implementation of motorcycle parking charges. Thousands of riders congregated near Trafalgar Square before setting off on a "go slow" around the streets of Westminster.

However,  Westminster City Council attempted to foil the bikers by changing the traffic light sequence at various junctions along the route.The bikers have always obeyed the "rules of the road" at every demonstration and WCC attempted to split the group up by holding them at various spots along the way by substantially extending the times of red signals.

Nevertheless, the bikers still came out on top as they managed to gridlock significant areas around Picadilly Circus, Regents Street, Park Lane, and Victoria. On their way they received much support from tourists and shoppers who were surprised that the council had imposed such a charge. Tourist Michael Dillon from New York was in Regents Street on holiday with his family. He said "I hope these guys are successful with their demonstration. For the local government to impose such a fee is pretty mean in my opinion.".

Prior to the protest, Westminster Council went on the offensive, criticising the motorcyclists for their intention to disrupt traffic in the West End. Westminster's cabinet member for transport Cllr Danny Chalkley said: "We recognise the importance of protest and have always welcomed constructive criticism and debate.

"However, it is entirely inappropriate to cause 'mayhem' in the most important shopping and entertainment district in the UK, especially at a time of global recession."

Following the demonstration (today) the council published a further report on the charge which listed many amendments to the scheme. One of these was reducing the charge from £1.50 per day to £1.00 per day. However, the bikers have vowed to fight on until the charge is totally scrapped with further  demonstrations planned throughout the summer. The bikers are concerned that the charge will set and precedent and open the way for other London Boroughs to follow suit.

The next demonstration is expected in June.

See our poll on the subject HERE

No to The Bike Parking Tax