Police take "firm action" on illegal off-road biking and damage to moors

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police car

A joint operation by Rochdale North Neighbourhood Team, supported by Rochdale East and local community volunteers, took place on Sunday 13 October, to tackle illegal off-road biking on the moorland areas. The initiative aimed to address the ongoing issue of bikers breaching laws designed to protect the land and its users.

During the operation, two groups of bikers were spotted riding on the moorland, in violation of both the law and Section 59 Police Reform Act warnings. Upon noticing the police presence, the bikers quickly dispersed from the area.

A spokesperson for the neighbourhood policing team made it clear that they would not hesitate to target such activities, which are often seen as harmless by some. "We make no apologies for targeting these activities which many think is harmless recreational fun. It is not harmless, walkers, cyclists, and horse riders are often put at risk, as well as animals that live on the land," they said.

The spokesperson also highlighted the damage caused to the moorland by repeated use of off-road bikes, which is rendering some areas inaccessible in emergencies, creating additional hazards for people.

In recent months, police have seized a number of stolen off-road bikes, as well as a stolen quad bike. Additionally, video evidence emerged showing a rider verbally threatening a member of the public who confronted them. Several individuals have also been arrested after failing roadside drug tests.

The issue of illegal activity in the area escalated on the evening of 7 October, when a vehicle rammed one of the steel barriers on Rooley Moor Road at Catley Lane Head.
 

Read more: Police crackdown on off-road bikers in Rochdale moorlandsPublished: 29 September 2024

The barriers were installed to protect the moorland from such activities. Significant damage was caused, with repairs expected to be costly.

The spokesperson emphasised that these are far from minor offences: "These are clearly not minor offences, and we will take robust action to deal with these matters."

Greater Manchester Police (GMP), alongside the local community and legitimate moorland users, have issued a strong warning: anyone coming to Rochdale to engage in unlawful off-road biking will be reported by the public, and GMP will take firm action.

Offenders face fines and the potential seizure of their bikes.

The police also revealed that further operations are planned in collaboration with Lancashire and West Yorkshire Constabulary to cover all parts of the moorland in an effort to tackle the ongoing issue.

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 8519 quoting log 826 08/10/2024, or the independent charity - Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. You can also contact police via 101.