Illegally driven and dangerous off-road bikes (off-road vehicles include: quad bikes, electric scooters, go-peds and trials bikes) are amongst the most common complaints raised by local residents, who are understandably concerned about reckless riders causing a significant amount of harassment, alarm, and distress in their local communities.
These inconsiderate riders are often seen riding without helmets and wearing balaclavas, putting their lives and the lives of others in mortal danger. These riders do not only pose a significant danger to the public, but they are also causing 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, pursue and apprehend offenders. For example, Section 59 warning signs have been erected in hot spot areas. These signs give police officers the power to seize offending off-road bikes, quads or 4×4’s immediately and, whenever possible, bikes will be confiscated and crushed so they cannot be returned or resold.
I am also investing in new state of the art technologies, such as drones, to revolutionise our approach to tackling off-road bikes. Drones enable officers to track and trace illegal off-road vehicles and their riders. Equipped with high-resolution cameras, drones can cover large areas very quickly, capturing real-time footage of illegal activities and images of the perpetrators. Aerial footage not only identifies the locations where bikes are being stored, but also assists in tracking the offender to where they can be located and arrested.
In addition to drones, everyday technology such as CCTV, doorbell cameras and smartphones can capture footage of offending off-road bikes. This information can provide crucial evidence that can lead to successful prosecutions. Every photo or piece of footage we receive helps us to build a bigger picture, identify offenders and keep people safe.
The law relating to off road bikes:
• It is illegal to drive or ride a mechanically propelled vehicle without lawful authority on common land, moorland or land not forming part of a road, or on any road which is a footpath, bridleway or restricted byway.
• Under section 34 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 the driving of motor vehicles off road and on public land is prohibited.
• Persons riding a quad bike on a footpath, bridleway or restricted bridleway would be guilty of an offence under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000.
• Even if someone has permission to ride a quad bike on land, if they are found to be riding ‘dangerously’ or ‘carelessly’ they would be guilty of an offence, even when they are driving off-road.
• Under Section 59 Police Reform Act 2002, officers can seize vehicles which are being used illegally, including prohibited off-road use.
• Noise issues can be dealt with by the local council under statutory nuisance noise legislation as provided by the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
• If riders are caught causing criminal damage, they can be arrested under the Criminal Damage Act 1971.
Anyone with information regarding the riding of illegal bikes 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
State:
• Times, days and locations the bikes are being used.
• The make, colour or size of the bike.
• Details of clothing, helmets and other distinguishing marks.
• Where bikes are being kept.