: During the pandemic, my constituency has
experienced a notable increase in anti-social and dangerous
behaviour by off-road motorcycles illegally using popular walking
paths and other public rights of way. The laudable work of Welsh
Government to open up our walking paths and allow fully inclusive
use has, with the removal of barriers, made it much easier for
off-road motorcycles to use such paths, and more difficult for the
police to enforce the law and keep residents safe. What discussions
have you had with South Wales Policeand with the
police and crime commissioner about how this intractable problem
can best be tackled?
(Deputy Minister and Chief Whip): You've raised the
issue of off-road biking. I'm very much aware, and obviously your
evidence today shows that there's been an increase in reports of
illegal activity during lockdowns, and, of course, that
encroaches on all those important open spaces for walking and for
taking exercise, which are so crucial for health and well-being.
I do understand that South Wales Police have
planned operations as part of an approach to tackle this issue.
Because we have strong relationships with our police forces, I
will raise the points the Member makes and ensure that we look at
off-roading as an issue where we can make sure that they are not
accessing routes that have no vehicle rights, or driving in an
illegal manner, and that this will be an important issue in terms
of community safety and well-being.
