Essex Police has announced a major crackdown on the dangerous and illegal use of e-scooters and e-bikes in Southend, warning that offenders will have their vehicles seized without exception.
E-scooters are legally classified as motor vehicles under the Road Traffic Act, meaning they require a licence and insurance to be used on public roads.
However, because it’s currently impossible to obtain insurance for privately owned e-scooters, riding them in public spaces, on pavements, roads, parks, and shopping centres is strictly illegal.
While some electrically assisted pedal cycles (EAPCs) are permitted, an e-bike is illegal if it can be propelled beyond 15.5mph without pedalling.
Essex Police say they are responding to a surge in complaints from the public about reckless e-scooter and e-bike use. The force is now making it clear that the time for education is over, and enforcement is now the priority.
Southend city centre also has a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) in place which also prohibits the use of any bikes or e-scooters in the High Street, designed to maximise public safety.
A spokesperson said: “It is illegal to use an e-scooter or an illegally adapted e-bike in a public place. We are constantly receiving complaints about their use, and we are alert to the dangers they pose.
“We will no longer be educating users. Instead, we will be seizing these vehicles. If you ride an e-scooter, you WILL have it seized, and you WILL NOT get it back.
“If you cause serious harm to another person while riding an e-scooter or an e-bike, you will be investigated just as if you were riding a motorcycle or driving a car.”
Local resident James Hurst said: “Finally! E-scooters are rife in Southend now. Just two days ago, I saw one racing down Bournemouth Park Road in broad daylight, completely ignoring traffic lights! Pull them over, confiscate, prosecute—end of!”
The action comes after an e-bike was reportedly ridden at speed and crashed into the back of a car in York Road, Southend.
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