As I’m sure you are all aware over recent weeks we have seen an increase in the amount of calls we are receiving regarding mini motos and motorbikes being used illegally on the open spaces around our town I would like to reassure residents that Durham Constabulary are doing everything we can to address these issues and will be working tirelessly to prosecute those that are putting others in danger. That said I would like to ask that we work together to address these issues. If you know who has these bikes and where they are stored we need to know. This information will be completely confidential but it will allow us to take action against those responsible Using Mini Motos Using these vehicles in parks, on pavements and in public places is illegal; the only legal area would be on private land and with the owner’s permission; so long as its use does not cause harassment, alarm or distress, or a statutory nuisance. An individual using a minimoto illegally could ultimately be liable to a fine of up to £1,000, have their licence/ future licence endorsed (with resulting extra costs via insurance etc.), lose their mini moto and see it crushed and/or have to pay for its removal and storage.
Mini Motos and the law The Government regards Mini Motos (Go-peds etc.) to be the same as motor vehicles and they should therefore:
• Be registered with the DVLA
• Have Road Tax
• Be insured
• Comply with road vehicle (construction and use) regulations meaning that it should have the correct working lights, indicators etc.
• Have ‘European Community Whole Vehicle Type Approval’ or ‘Motor Cycle Single Vehicle Approval’.
• Riders should have a suitable safety helmet, appropriate insurance (for use on a road) and a driving licence that authorises the use of that vehicle
• Riders of the vehicles should be 17 years of age unless the vehicle meets the definition of a moped, which can be ridden at the age of 16.
A moped is a motorcycle or scooter that has an engine capacity under 50cc and is designed not to do more that 31mph/50kmh. Also any parents who allow their child to use these mini motos will have their details shared with Social Services for putting your child in unnecessary danger. – You have been warned Michael.welch@durham.pnn.police.uk – Please feel free to email me with any information
