Police launch major crackdown on people who use off-road bikes illegally

Police have launched a crackdown on illegal off-road biking in rural parts of Wrexham, Denbighshire and Flintshire following numerous complaints from local residents. The operation, named Operation Dales, began over the weekend with high visibility patrols along known routes used by off-road bikers, including the Wayfarer near Llanarmon DC.

It follows a number of complaints made by local residents of bikes causing noise, disruption and damage to areas of outstanding natural beauty and Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). There have also been reports of uninsured, untaxed and non-road legal vehicles being used to ride certain routes.

In collaboration with neighbourhood policing teams, Natural Resources Wales, AONB Rangers and local authorities, rural crime officers are working to educate visitors about the impact of anti-social off-road riding. Drones have been deployed to specific areas to target any bikes being used illegally, while officers are also identifying and taking action against anyone committing offences.

READ MORE: Passenger stole taxi and died after crashing it on the A55

READ NEXT: 'Significant concentration of formaldehyde' enters River Alyn, leaked memo warns

PC Amy Bennett of the Rural Crime Team, who launched the operation, said a number of off-road bikers were stopped across various areas, with riders spoken to and educated. Legitimate users were also spoken to, who were happy to engage and were supportive of the operation.

"Historically, issues with anti-social riding in these areas has created increased tensions amongst residents and farming communities," she explained. "This is an issue the rural crime team and partners are taking seriously as we understand the frustration that they cause within our communities.

"Damage caused by bikes in these areas has a harmful impact on landscapes and causes distress to wildlife. It also causes far reaching consequences for the environment by disturbing sensitive habitats and causing irreversible damage to SSSI sites.

"We know most visitors to the area are driving road legal and suitable vehicles however, it is becoming increasingly apparent that uninsured, untaxed and non-road legal vehicles are being utilised to travel these routes.

"It is reported they have been brought in on low loaders, or in the case of motor bikes and quads, travelling to the area loaded in large vans, before being driven illegally through the villages and green lanes.

"This will not be tolerated, and we are asking members of the public to continue supporting us to tackle this issue by providing information about off-road bikes in their area direct to us on 101, or via the website." Additional patrols will be conducted in the upcoming months as part of this operation.

North Wales Live has launched a WhatsApp community group where you can get the latest stories delivered straight to your phone