We have teamed up with Police Scotland to tackle the scourge of illegal and antisocial use of e-bikes, e-scooters and quad bikes blighting communities.
Modified e-bikes and e-scooters used in public places can pose a serious risk to pedestrians, other road users and the riders themselves. And the law is clear: privately owned e-scooters cannot be used on public roads, pavements or other public places in Scotland.
“People in our communities should not have to put up with vehicles being ridden at excessive speeds, on pavements, through parks and public spaces, or in a way that causes fear or intimidation,” said Jim Logue, Council Leader.
“We want to reassure residents that this behaviour will not be tolerated. Working closely with Police Scotland, we are taking a firm and coordinated approach.
"We are particularly concerned about illegally modified e-bikes and conversion kits that can turn a legal bicycle into an illegal motor vehicle.
“Our Trading Standards team will take action where retailers and suppliers are not complying with their legal responsibilities and will work closely with partners, including DVSA, where modified e-bikes or e-scooters exceed the legal limits and fall within their enforcement remit."
Nationally, efforts are underway to introduce a more consistent enforcement approach across Scotland.
Stephen Llewelyn, Council Deputy Chief Executive added: “I’d encourage parents to consider what they are buying and to know what their child is riding. Parents should be aware of the danger posed by these modified e-bikes and scooters to their children as well as the wider public.”
Police Scotland has a range of powers to deal with vehicles being used illegally or dangerously, including vehicle seizure, fixed penalties, prosecution, penalty points and, where appropriate, disqualification from driving.
The council and Police Scotland will use community information, patrols, CCTV and other available technology to identify those responsible and take action.
Superintendent Ross McCallum, Lanarkshire Division, said: “We recognise the significant impact this illegal and anti-social behaviour can have on communities.
“Officers will use the powers available to deal with vehicles being used illegally, dangerously or in an anti-social manner. Where enforcement action can be taken, it will be taken. Vehicles can be seized and offences can lead to fines, penalty points and prosecution.
“Our community teams are working hard, alongside our many partners, to tackle this issue. Regular reporting from the public also allows us to try and engage with riders at the time or otherwise build intelligence which helps to identify offenders and take action at a later date.
“We encourage anyone with information or concerns about illegal or dangerous activity contact us via 101, or 999 in an emergency.”