Motorcyclists and other motorised vehicle drivers in Harlow are potentially being criminalised by the new injunction taken out by Harlow Council banning them from riding in groups of 2 or more, riding in convoy or taking part in unauthorised ride outs.

This draconian injunction is offensive to bikers who ride legally and respectfully and is ill thought out in its implementation.  This injunction will impact upon law abiding riders including groups of friends, motorcycle clubs and charity events,

The police already have the power to stop any illegal activities taking place using existing laws and the public are concerned that this injunction will be misused to punish riders who ride within the law.

This injunction must be withdrawn urgently to prevent further alienation of law abiding citizens and further embarrassment to Harlow Council.

Harlow Council Announcement​

Harlow Council Injunction

The town-wide injunction, which is believed to be the first of its kind, runs until 31 March 2017.

It was granted to the council in time to stop a planned ride out event set for 21 May 2016. (http://www.harlowstar.co.uk/Police-warn-Harlow-youths-second-Marcel-ride/story-29288960-detail/story.html) but has wider implications for all other vehicle users.

The injunction bans groups of two or more people from taking part in unauthorised ride outs between 10am and 12midnight on any public land or public highway in Harlow. It covers ride outs involving both motor cycles and motor vehicles. Anyone breaking the injunction would be in contempt of court and may be sent to prison.

The injunction forbids the following activities as part of an unauthorised ride out:
Excessive noise.
Danger to other road users including pedestrians.
Damage or risk of damage to private property.
Any nuisance to other persons not participating in the unauthorised ride
Driving at excess speed.

Driving in convoy.
Racing another motor vehicle.
Performing stunts.
Sounding horns.
Playing loud music.
Dropping litter.
Shouting or swearing at, threatening or otherwise intimidating others

 

Comment from the Council;

Nuisance particularly from the illegal riding of motorbikes is blighting people's quality of life in Harlow and the Council will not stand by and do nothing.

It is becoming an increasing problem, not just in Harlow but other areas in the country, and now we are approaching the warmer months we want to put deterrents into action.

The injunction is one of a number of measures the Council working with the Police has in place to target the issue of nuisance bikes.
– HARLOW COUNCIL SPOKESMAN