Anti-social use of off-road motorcycles and other motor vehicles

Resident

Anti-Social Vehicle Use in Dunton Green and Surrounding Areas

We've recently received a number of reports regarding the anti-social use of off-road motorcycles, mopeds and other motor vehicles on public footpaths and open spaces across Dunton Green and the surrounding areas. This behaviour is dangerous, illegal and puts pedestrians, families and vulnerable residents at risk of serious harm.

We want to reassure the community that this remains a priority for your local Community Safety Unit. We understand the impact this behaviour has on residents, from intimidation and noise nuisance to the very real risk of collision and injury.

Following reports of anti-social use of two mopeds, both registered owners have been issued with Section 59 Warnings, which will remain valid for 12 months. Both owners have been advised that if either vehicle is subsequently witnessed by police being used in an anti-social manner, the vehicle may be seized.

The parents of both registered owners were spoken to and were supportive of the action taken. The circumstances and offences were explained in full, and both families understood the reasons for the warnings being issued.

Both vehicles are already known to police, and the relevant information has been shared with officers working in the Sevenoaks town centre area to ensure ongoing awareness and monitoring.

During these conversations, both owners expressed concerns regarding the security of their vehicles when attending the local sports facility. They were advised that, should they wish to bring their mopeds to the area, the vehicles must be switched off and walked to where they are parked.

Both owners were clearly informed that if they are seen riding their mopeds on sports fields, tennis courts, footpaths or any area other than the public highway, CCTV footage and other evidence may be used to support enforcement action, including the seizure of their vehicles under the Section 59 warning conditions.

If you witness this type of behaviour, please report it directly to Kent Police rather than only posting it on social media. Whilst social media can help raise awareness, officers may not always see these posts and opportunities to take enforcement action could be missed. Reporting incidents through the appropriate police channels allows us to assess, record and act on information, helping us identify offenders and take positive action.

When reporting, please try to include:

To report anti-social vehicle use:

We remain committed to making the Sevenoaks district safer and reducing this type of anti-social behaviour, but we need your continued support to gather intelligence and take effective enforcement action.

Thank you for your ongoing cooperation and support.