Anti Social Behaviour on Common Land

Hello Resident

Recently, there have been a number of reports relating to Anti - Social Behaviour (ASB) and nuissance motorbikes / 4x4 vehicles causing damage to the common land on Mynydd Y Gaer Mountain (Between Gilfach/Blackmill and Heol Y Cyw).

The Safer Bridgend Partnership involves many agencies working together to prevent anti-social behaviour in this area. The use of motor vehicles on this land is responsible for serious damage to the environment. It impacts on the management of the land and causes harm to animals, some of which are protected species. It also significantly impacts on the quality of life for customers utilising the facilities in the area and shows a lack of respect for others.

It is illegal to ride any motor vehicle in public open spaces such as parks, play areas and on pavements. You can only ride an off road motor vehicle legally if it is on private land and you have the land owner’s permission. Land owned by the local council is not classed as private land.

Other offences being committed by the riders of the off road motor vehicles in this area include criminal damage and offences under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 in relation to sites of special scientific interest.

Section 34 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 provides the offence of driving a mechanically propelled vehicle without lawful authority on common land, moorland or land not forming part of a road, or on any road which is a footpath, bridleway or restricted byway.

You may not be aware but a vehicle can be seized under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002, if a vehicle is seen being used inappropriately. If following a warning the person continues to offend, police can seize and remove the vehicle. Other penalties may include a court appearance for the rider, owner and may include a hefty fine.

These sites are not equipped to meet the health and safety needs of this activity and there is potential for serious injury to both drivers and members of the public.

Neighbourhood Policing Team will be showing presence in this area when we can, due to the amount of reports.