Thoughtless bikers abusing open space in a Babergh village are being warned they could face having their vehicles seized and crushed as part of a crackdown on anti-social behaviour.
The Great Cornard Safer Neighbourhood Team has launched a renewed crackdown on scrambler bikes being ridden recklessly, and anti-socially, on the Shawlands Avenue open space.
Neighbourhood Police patrols and officers from Babergh District Council are targeting the areas where bikers gather and ride illegally after reports that scramblers have been seen on local parkland, farmland and other open spaces.
Sally Watson, Babergh’s Anti-Social Behaviour Network Officer Officer, said: “These gatherings cause annoyance and nuisance to people legitimately using and enjoying the countryside - the noise from the machines can be very loud and distressing.
“We are aiming to identify offenders and take as many illegal riders off of the roads and parks as possible.”
Mrs Watson urged members of the public to help the team and report any instances to the police or to Babergh.
Records of where and when the problems are occurring together with names of those involved are crucial to help the Safer Neighbourhood Team tackle the problem.
Sgt Dave Giles, from the Cornard Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “There are powers in place to help us deal with offenders, including a local bylaw and enforcement tools such as warning notices and powers to seize and crush vehicles, which will be considered.
“Parents are reminded there are laws in place relating to moped and mini-moto use, and are encouraged not to buy these vehicles for their children.”
And Michael Fitt, Great Cornard Parish Council Manager, added: "In 2000, the Parish Council passed a bylaw banning motorcycles from its land at Blackhouse Lane, Shawlands Avenue and the Hedgerows village green.
“We are concerned, therefore, that unlicensed - and potentially unsafe motorbikes - continue to cause annoyance and nuisance to residents, as well as churning up the woodland pathways.
“The Council will be co-operating fully with the Great Cornard Safer Neighbourhood Team."
To report any instances of anti-social behaviour please call Babergh’s anti-social behviour reporting line on (01473) 826622 or on the anti-social behaviour page of our website. ENDS
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