A MOTORBIKE has been seized by police after complaints about illegal riding in Redditch.

Antisocial behaviour issues with motorcycles - including off road bikes - have been an ongoing problem in Greenlands and Woodrow for some time, with complaints about them being ridden on footpaths and through alleys, having no number plates and riders not wearing helmets.

Affected areas include the alley between Salford Close and Tredington Close, the rear of South Redditch Sports and Social Club in Throckmorton Road, the underpass in Woodrow Drive, Woodrow First School, and Grafton Close.

Police are taking proactive action by seizing one bike and reporting two people to the courts.
PC Alan Bolton, Safer Neighbourhoods Officer for Greenlands and LodgePark, said police were being vigilant and urged anyone who knew was responsible to contact officers on West Mercia’s non-emergency number 101.

He said: “There is a clear risk to not only the riders themselves, but also to pedestrians.

“We want to reassure the community we are doing something and our actions will hopefully act as a deterrent to others who are intent on making people’s life hell.

“This issue is causing a great deal of distress to local residents and having an impact upon their quality of life, and it will not be tolerated.”

Police have powers under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act to seize bikes if they are seen being ridden in a careless or inconsiderate manner, on common land, footpaths, and bridleways, and are being ridden in a manner which is causing alarm, distress or annoyance to members of the public.

Warnings are issued and if either the rider or the vehicle causes similar problems in the next 12 months the vehicle can be seized and, if recovery and storage costs are not paid, or it can be proved that there is no insurance, licence or other correct documentation, it will be crushed.

Any residents who wish to talk to the police about illegal motorcycles or any other quality of life issues can attend either of the area’s forthcoming PACT (Partners and Communities Together) meetings.

They will take place at Frederick Eary House, YMCA, Studley Road, tomorrow, Thursday, February 13 at 7pm or Oakhill School, Wirehill Drive, on Tuesday, February 25, at 7pm.