Fury as Kirklees misses out on government cash

1.51.53pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 10th Aug 2006

Mini Motos can be a nuisance

Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democrats, Councillor John Smithson is dismayed that Kirklees has not received any of the £200,000 government cash targeted at sorting out reckless drivers of mini-motos. "These mini-moto drivers are causing huge problems across Kirklees. They disrupt and damage communities and property. I am dismayed that the Council has not got a share of this cash and am contacting the Chair of the Anti-Crime Partnership to find out why. An injection of cash would have meant that the police could take much more action that they are doing to get on top of this problem. The problem comes up time after time in community meetings. It is illegal to ride an unregistered mini-motos and similar off-roading vehicles on pavements, in parks and on public highways. But these rules are often just ignored."

"Crime Disorder Reduction Partnerships in a number of areas will receive a step by step practical guide to help effectively tackle those who misuse mini-motos. I will be asking what Kirklees is doing to promote safe and sensible use. These vehicles are not toys and I want to see irresponsible drivers stopped and if necessary their bikes crushed" says Councillor Smithson. "However, the Council must do more to find a site where young people can legally ride these bikes in safety."

The Motor Cycle Industry Association estimates that sales of mini-moto type vehicles have increased from 10,000 in 2002 to an estimated 100,000 in 2005, although police believe there could be more in circulation.

Although sometimes incorrectly marketed as 'toys' these vehicles have loud engines and can reach speeds of up to 60mph. Police have received thousands of complaints about them over the last year.

"We all expect to live in peace and not to be worried about being mown down or have to listen to the constant buzz of the engines. Many people will now have to face another summer of noise and nuisance. I shall be making sure that the anti-crime partnership takes this seriously."