Cyclists are continuing to break Oxford Street’s new pedestrian-only rules, with dozens spotted riding through the shopping district despite warnings from enforcement officers.

On the second day of the street’s pedestrianisation, cyclists, e-bike users and delivery riders were seen travelling along the newly traffic-free 1km stretch, passing bollards, barriers and marshals stationed to enforce the ban.

The Standard counted 51 cyclists riding through the pedestrianised zone this morning — almost one every minute.

While some may be unaware of the new restrictions, others were seen getting back on their bikes after being told by Transport for London (TfL) staff to dismount.

Despite the breaches, none of the cyclists observed by The Standard appeared to receive a fine.

Transport for London has been approached for further comment.

So why are riders being allowed to ignore the ban, and what powers do authorities have to enforce it?

With the pedestrianisation scheme still in its infancy, the emphasis appears to be on providing "advice and guidance" rather than immediately issuing fines.

It is also worth noting that some e-bikes travel at high speeds, making it difficult for marshals to intercept every rider who passes by.

Enforcing cycling rules has long presented challenges for police, with the issue previously raised in Parliament.

Unlike motorists, cyclists are not required to register their bicycles or display number plates, making it more difficult for officers to identify riders who fail to stop.

Speaking in the House of Lords last year, former Metropolitan Police commissioner Lord Hogan-Howe described witnessing cyclists ignoring traffic signals and putting pedestrians at risk in the City of London.

He said he had spotted "cyclists ignoring pedestrian crossings and red lights, and moving dangerously through pedestrians", despite several uniformed police officers being stationed nearby.

Despite the “advice and guidance” approach, cyclists who ignore Oxford Street's new restrictions face potential penalties of up to £160, according to TfL's website.

The penalty is reduced to £80 if paid within 14 days.

TfL has said it is working with dockless bike operators, including Lime, Voi and Forest, to introduce geofencing technology designed to discourage riders from entering the pedestrianised area.

The technology creates a virtual boundary around the restricted zone, triggering changes to a vehicle's motor assistance when it crosses into the area.

For dockless e-bikes, this means the electric pedal assistance gradually slows down, although riders can still propel the bicycles manually.

For rental e-scooters, which rely on a motor, geofencing can bring the vehicle to a stop.

But it was not clear from The Standard's observations on Tuesday whether the e-bikes travelling through Oxford Street were being slowed by the technology.

The scheme’s bosses hope in the coming months, with further changes to Oxford Street set to be made, that cycling through the area will be made more difficult. As part of the wider transformation, new seating, planters and trees are due to be installed along Oxford Street, creating a more pedestrian-focused environment.

A TfL spokesperson said on Tuesday: “As the highway authority for Oxford St, TfL has the legal powers to enforce traffic signs and regulations, working with the Police and other relevant enforcement partners where appropriate. As with any major change in road layout and rules, TfL’s approach is to engage and educate first.

“As more people become aware of the changes, and as more greenery and seating are installed within the traffic-free area, the number of incidents is expected to decrease. We will maintain an active presence of enforcement officers.

“Cyclists, e-scooter users and pedicabs will be physically banned from entering pedestrianised sections on Oxford Street with barriers. There will be signs asking people to walk their bikes in the traffic-free zone and a heightened TfL enforcement officer presence. TfL will continue to monitor and review the design of the scheme to ensure that there is adequate signage, specially designed physical measures and sufficient on-street enforcement.

“Strict geo-fencing is in place for dockless e-bikes that enter the traffic-free zone, which will automatically cut or reduce power for dockless e-bikes should they attempt to enter the traffic free area. TfL will monitor and work with suppliers to remove any e-bikes found in the area.”

A spokesperson for Forest said: “All cyclists, whether riding a shared or privately owned bike, are prohibited from cycling along the newly pedestrianised Oxford Street.

“Forest has introduced a geofenced zone in the area, which automatically cuts the electric motor assistant if a rider enters and prevents them from ending their ride within the zone.

“The new restrictions are clearly displayed in the Forest app, and we have contacted users directly to explain these changes.”

Christina Moe Gjerde, VP Northern Europe at Voi, said: “Anything that gets people out of cars and encourages active, sustainable travel is a win. With Oxford Street now pedestrianised, the focus should be on making it work as part of a joined up transport network, where walking, public transport, cycling and shared micromobility complement one another.

“London is now a cycling city, so safe alternative cycling routes are essential to keep people moving across the capital while protecting pedestrianised spaces.

“Voi riders should respect the walking only restrictions and use designated routes around Oxford Street.”

The Metropolitan Police have been contacted for comment.