Quad bikers in danger of tearing up conservation village

Photo: Google, DigitalGlobe

Prickshaw Village

Off road bikes and four-wheel drive quads are in danger of destroying one of Rochdale's most historical hamlets, says councillor for Spotland and Falinge, Faisal Rana.

Councillor Rana told Rochdale Online how the Prickshaw and Broadley Fold Conservation Area is being ‘plagued by mindless riders who are tearing up the countryside in specially adapted dirt bikes and quads, making life a misery for the residents of this quiet rural backwater’.

The hamlet, dating back to medieval times, sits at the foot of Rooley Moor overlooking Healey Dell and was originally designated as a Conservation Area in 1987.

Councillor Rana is now calling on Rochdale and Rossendale councils to take decisive and joined up action to tackle the growing menace. He also wants to see Greater Manchester and Lancashire police forces working together to protect the moorland and stamp out illegal quads and bikes racing through the area.

He said: "This is becoming a bigger problem all the time. Super-charged off-road modified quad bikes come racing through the village at dangerous speeds. It's been going on for years and has actually been made worse during the lockdown. More people have time on their hands and have been coming to the area for walks, parking indiscriminately and causing traffic obstructions. And then we have the off-road bikers and quad bikes illegally tearing up and down the lanes, on to the moorland and tearing it up.

“With all the additional walkers in the area and so much loose livestock roaming the land, it's a wonder there hasn't been a serious accident. The whole community is at their wits' end.

Councillor Rana added: "The problem has been made worse by the recent demolition of Spring Mill in Whitworth for housing development which has opened up access to Prickshaw and Broadley Fold, Healey Dell and the open moors.

"Residents have even formed an 'off road watch' to report illegal bikers to the police. The area straddles two local authority areas and two police forces. It's now time for some serious joined up action. 

"The police have been very supportive and have taken action in the past, but they are hampered by a lack of resources.

"Residents have been working tirelessly and constructively with the authorities to try and sort out the problem. They now need our support and need some action. 

"Some fencing, gates and barriers are needed to prevent off road bikes and quads gaining illegal access to the moors. The developers of Spring Mill also need to prevent unauthorised access to and from their site. 

"This is a stunning area and one of Rochdale's historical gems. We need to take action now to preserve its beauty and tranquillity for future generations to enjoy."