Quad bikes and off-road vehicles seized in Rotherham borough-wide crackdown

Area assemblies — made up of police officers and councillors — have introduced Section 171 signs in areas where nusiance off-road bikes have been reported which give police the power to seize them without having to issue the rider without a statutory notice.

Rotherham Borough Council said the issue “had been a particular problem” in Meadowbank and Masbrough.

Ward councillor Ian Jones said: “As ward councillors we are delighted that police are able to use these powers to crack down on nuisance bikes.”

Cllr Pat Jarvis added: “We’ve seen particular problems in our ward and the vehicles are not only a nuisance but have also been putting people’s lives at risk, so anything that makes it easier for police to take action is very welcome.”

Insp Dave Struggles, of Rotherham Central local policing team, said “several” arrests had been made over the past few weels.

He added: “The issue of nuisance and off road vehicles is an ongoing problem and is a regular complaint passed to us. 

“This activity is dangerous, antisocial and irresponsible and negatively affects the quality of life of the community of Rotherham. 

“Dedicated patrols are regularly conducted to tackle nuisance off-road machines and acting upon information passed from the public we have been able to focus our efforts in the right areas and on those responsible.”

Insp Struggles asked anyone with any information about off-road motorbikes or quads to call police on 101.