🏍️ Supporting Motorcyclists: A Message for Hotel Owners & Managers

With the summer months bringing an increase in motorcyclists visiting Kent and the wider South East, we are asking hotel owners and managers to consider what additional measures can be put in place to help protect guests' motorcycles and provide reassurance during their stay.

There has been an increase in reports of motorcycles being targeted and stolen from hotel car parks and accommodation venues in recent months, often overnight whilst guests are staying away from home. Riders can be particularly vulnerable as they may be unfamiliar with the local area and have limited options for securely parking their motorcycles.

Many effective crime prevention measures are simple and low-cost to implement:

✅ Allow motorcycles to be parked in areas covered by CCTV wherever possible.

✅ Ensure parking areas are well lit throughout the night.

✅ Consider extending CCTV coverage to designated parking locations.

✅ Allow riders to secure motorcycles to fixed objects such as fence posts, railings or ground anchors where available.

✅ Offer parking locations that benefit from natural surveillance, such as near reception areas, entrances or staff workspaces.

✅ Where practical, allocate motorcyclists rooms overlooking parking areas so they can keep an eye on their vehicles.

✅ Encourage staff to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity around parked motorcycles.

✅ Consider establishing a designated motorcycle parking area close to the main building.

✅ Display signage highlighting that CCTV is in operation and that security patrols are conducted.

✅ Include motorcycle parking areas within any routine evening or overnight staff patrols.

✅ Ask guests at check-in if they have arrived by motorcycle and direct them to the most secure parking area available.

✅ Where appropriate, record basic details of guests' motorcycles, including the make, model, colour and registration number. In the event of a theft, this information can assist with prompt and accurate reporting to police, particularly where language barriers may exist.

✅ Ensure any vegetation, fencing or structures do not provide concealment for offenders operating around parked motorcycles.

Many motorcyclists invest significantly in security devices such as chains, disc locks, alarms and trackers. Support from accommodation providers can further reduce opportunities for theft and help ensure visitors enjoy a safe and secure stay.

Even small changes can make a substantial difference. Hotels that actively support motorcycle security not only help reduce crime but also enhance their reputation amongst the motorcycling community, many of whom choose accommodation based on the safety and security measures available.

By working together, we can help make Kent a welcoming destination for riders whilst reducing the risk of motorcycle theft.

#MotorcycleSecurity #CrimePrevention #HotelSafety #MyCommunityVoice #KentPolice #SecureParking #MotorcycleAwareness