Police target illegal and damaging use of off-road vehicles on moors

Some of the vehicles seized as part of the operation

Officers from the Rochdale police neighbourhood team, Safer Roads Targeting team and United Utilities have been conducting another operation to target illegal and damaging use of off-road vehicles on the moor.

This issue has been designated a priority by the residents of both the Spotland and Falinge ward and Norden Ward. External funding has been provided to support this operation.

Off-road vehicles cause damage to the moorland which affects the livestock on the moor and the water supplies into the reservoirs that supply Rochdale.

Some riders also cause a danger to walkers, cyclists and horses.

Reports to police of anti-social vehicle use on the moorland and surrounding area are regularly received.

Section 34 of the Road Traffic Act creates an offence of using motor vehicles on the moorland without permission. Vehicle can and will be seized under Section 59 of the Police reform act.

Cowm Leisure in Whitworth provide a facility for legal off roading.