Illegally operated and dangerous off-road bikes (off-road vehicles include: quad bikes, electric scooters, bicycles and trials bikes) are among the most common complaints raised by local residents, who are understandably concerned about reckless riders causing a significant amount of nuisance, distress and disaster in their local communities.
These careless riders are often seen riding without helmets and wearing balaclavas, putting their lives and the lives of others in mortal danger. These riders not only pose a significant danger to society, but also cause a huge amount of environmental damage and noise pollution.
To combat this problem, I am funding a range of schemes and investing in advanced technology to help officers identify, prosecute and apprehend offenders. For example, Section 59 warning signs are erected in hot spots. These signs give police officers the power to immediately confiscate offending off-road bikes, quad bikes or 4×4s and, where possible, the bikes will be confiscated and crushed so they cannot be returned or resold.
I’m also investing in new cutting-edge technology, such as drones, to revolutionize the way we approach off-road cycling. Drones allow officers to track and trace illegal off-road vehicles and their drivers. Equipped with high-resolution cameras, drones can cover large areas very quickly, capturing real-time footage of illegal activities and images of perpetrators. Aerial footage not only identifies the locations where the bikes are stored, but also helps in tracking the offender to where he can be located and arrested.
In addition to drones, everyday technologies such as CCTV, doorbell cameras and smartphones can capture footage of offending off-road bikes. This information can provide important evidence that can lead to a successful prosecution. Every photo or footage we receive helps us build the bigger picture, identify offenders and keep people safe.
The off-road bicycle law:
• It is unlawful to drive or drive a mechanically propelled vehicle without lawful permission on public land, moorland or land not forming part of a road, or on any road which is a footpath, bridleway or limited roadside.
• Section 34 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 prohibits the driving of motor vehicles off-road and on public land.
• Persons riding a quad bike on a footpath, bridleway or restricted bridleway will be guilty of an offense under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000.
• Even if someone has a permit to drive an ATV on land, if they are found to be driving “dangerously” or “carelessly” they will be guilty of an offense even when driving off-road.
• Under section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002, officers can impound vehicles that are being used unlawfully, including prohibited off-road use.
• Noise matters can be dealt with by the local council under statutory nuisance noise legislation as set out in the Environment Protection Act 1990.
• If riders are caught causing criminal damage, they can be arrested under the Criminal Damage Act 1971.
Anyone with information about illegal bike riding should:
• Call the police on 101 or report online by visiting durham.police.uk
• Or report to Crimestoppers (100% anonymously) by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting crimestoppers.org.uk
status:
• Times, days and places where the bikes are used.
• Bike brand, color or size.
• Details of clothing, helmets and other insignia.
• Where the bikes are stored.
