Police are looking into ways to develop a dedicated off-road motorcycle facility to reduce anti-social behavior in local communities.
Motorcycle disruption is a regular topic at Tyne and Wear council meetings on speeding, noise and public safety.
Despite the introduction of systems to better identify drivers and vehicles, the problem still consumes a large part of the police’s resources.
As part of an alternative approach to addressing the problem, Northumbria Police are hoping to follow in the footsteps of the Scottish Police by developing a dedicated motorcycle facility.
This aims to redirect off-road motorcycles and the related problems they cause from populated areas to a location where riders can safely use the vehicles.
Plans for such a facility were made by a Sunderland North Area Committee To meet.
Although full details are yet to be confirmed, councilors heard that the force would like to purchase property near South Tyneside, Sunderland and Gateshead.
Another update on the project was sent to South Tyneside Council Hebburn Community Area Forum on Monday October 18th.
Neighborhood Inspector Denise Easdon said a meeting is expected to take place this month to get more information on the program, how it works in practice in Scotland and the challenges / issues.
It goes without saying that the proposals are still being developed and are subject to further resolution.
The overall goal, however, would be to try and get the off-road bike interior design project within the Northumbria Police Department.
Northumbria Police and Criminal Investigation Commissioner Kim McGuinness welcomed the force as it explored new ways to combat antisocial behavior.
“Dangerous off-road motorcycling is a problem that needs a long-term solution,” she said.
“I know the Northumbria Police are taking proactive steps to identify those responsible and, if necessary, to take away the affected bikes.
“But alongside this police response, we also need to look at bigger changes, and that includes seeing if young people can be taught to enjoy motorcycles without disturbing others. So it’s great that the police are looking into these possibilities.
“For me, this is how our region has to approach anti-social behavior.
“Yes, sometimes a police reaction is required, but also a joint work of councils, youth welfare offices, housing providers and others is required to combat the causes of anti-social behavior.
“I know our councils in Northumberland [and] That is what Tyne and Wear are committed to and I look forward to working with them. “
A Northumbria Police spokesman added: “We know that antisocial behavior by a minority can have a negative impact on the communities we serve, and we are committed to taking action against those involved.
“As a force, we are working closely with our local authorities and other partners to tackle bicycle-related antisocial behavior and have had a number of successes recently – but we are not going to be complacent.
“We will continue to review and use all tactics available to us to address this issue and, as always, would like to ask the community to work with us.
“If you know the identity of these drivers or know where bicycles are stored overnight, please report this to the police.”
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