Liberal Democrats call for crackdown on illegal use of off-road vehicles 

Liberal Democrat councillors in Trafford will call for a crackdown on illegal use of e-scooters, e-bikes and off-road vehicles at a meeting of Trafford's Full Council tonight (03/12).  

The Liberal Democrat motion calls on the council to work with Greater Manchester Police to identify problem areas in the borough where such vehicles are used illegally and share information with Greater Manchester Police, who are ramping up efforts to tackle the issue.   

Liberal Democrat councillor for Timperley Central, Julian Newgrosh says anti-social behaviour involving e-bikes, scooters and off road vehicles like quad bikes is "one of the most common complaints that residents raise." 

Councillor Newgrosh said, "We're bringing this motion because we've listened to the feedback of residents.  Illegal use of these vehicles can be incredibly dangerous and people want the council to get serious about challenging reckless behaviour."  

Electric scooters are legal to own in the UK, but it is illegal to use privately owned e-scooters on public roads or cycleways.  The Liberal Democrats say more needs to be done to raise awareness about the law and give public confidence in reporting illegal and dangerous activity.  

Liberal Democrat councillor for Broadheath Ward, Ulrich Savary, said, "There is a feeling amongst residents that there is no point reporting these issues as the police can't or won't act on it.  This is not true and in fact, Greater Manchester Police are stepping up their work to combat this problem.  We want to see a fair amount of police time and resources used in Trafford and we think Trafford Council has a role to play in helping to target the enforcement in the real problem spots." 

"So residents should report concerns about these vehicles to the police and also to their local councillors."