Southend: Fifty-eight e-bikes and e-scooters seized in new crackdown

An operation to combat illegally ridden e-bikes and e-scooters in Southend has led to 58 seizures since March.

Officers from Southend Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) are warning riders that ignorance of the law is no excuse and there will be no second chances when caught.

A previous operation focussing on the city centre saw officers take an ‘engage and educate’ approach, but frequent reports of reckless riding and concern from members of the public has led to the expansion of the initiative and tougher enforcement action being taken.

Currently, it is only legal to use to an e-scooter on private land or in one of the cities that are part of a government-regulated scheme.

Electric-assisted pedal cycles are legal providing they can’t travel beyond 15.5mph. However, officers have seen examples of bikes at travelling at speeds far exceeding the limit as well as pedal bikes that have been converted to have throttles akin to a motorbike.

The centre of Southend is already covered by a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) that prohibits any from of cycling or e-scooter use. This does not apply to police officers on duty.

T/Inspector Steve Wells of Southend NPT said:

“The irresponsible use of e-scooters and e-bikes is an issue we’ve been tackling for some time. The public don’t like them, they’re dangerous and in the wrong hands can cause serious injuries.

“Anyone walking in a pedestrianised area shouldn’t have to be on high alert that someone might be hurtling towards them on an e-bike or e-scooter. By taking them off the streets, we’re making the city safer for everyone.

“We are very clear, you cannot ride an e-scooter anywhere in public in Southend, and e-bikes that can travel beyond 15.5mph that can be powered without having to pedal are illegal. If you have one and you’re riding it around the city, we will take it from you.

“I understand that it’s a confusing picture for some people as they can go to other cities and see e-scooters being ridden but these are part of an official scheme where you have to register using your driving license. The fact you can get hold of the bikes and scooters so easily in shops and online is also a problem.

“E-bikes and e-scooters are uninsured motor vehicles, and they must satisfy the legal criteria to be used on a highway. If, as a car driver, you are involved in a collision with one, it’s no different to being in a collision with an uninsured driver. The risk of injury is also higher for the users and pedestrians.

“We’ve spent a lot of time doing early intervention, education and engagement but we now at a point where we will be enforcing. The risk and danger are unacceptable.”

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