West Mercia Police seized 19 illegal e-scooters in Telford town centre during a three-day crackdown this week, following public complaints about dangerous riding. Some of the vehicles were capable of reaching significant speeds, posing a serious risk to riders and pedestrians.
Three-Day Operation Targets Dangerous Riding
Officers acted after members of the public reported e-scooters being ridden dangerously through the town centre and its shopping centre. On Monday night (August 24), six e-scooters were seized, followed by a further eight the next day.
On Wednesday (August 26), Operation Spree took place across the borough, targeting people riding offroad motorbikes illegally. During this operation, five more e-scooters were seized, along with an offroad bike, as part of efforts to combat anti-social behaviour.
Police Warning on Private E-Scooters
Sergeant Matt Corfield, from the Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: "We have received a number of reports from members of the public about e-scooters being ridden dangerously in Telford town centre, causing concern for shoppers, visitors and local businesses."
"These seizures demonstrate our commitment to tackling anti-social behaviour and taking action against those who choose to use vehicles illegally or irresponsibly," he added. "Some of the e-scooters we recovered are capable of reaching significant speeds, which can pose a serious risk to both riders and pedestrians."
Legal Rules Around E-Scooters
Sergeant Corfield reminded the public that privately owned e-scooters cannot legally be used on public roads, pavements, cycle lanes or pedestrianised areas. Anyone found doing so risks having their vehicle seized by police.
"We will continue carrying out proactive operations across Telford and the wider borough to keep our communities safe," he said, encouraging anyone with concerns about anti-social behaviour or illegal vehicle use to report it to police. There are currently no legal e-scooter rental schemes in Shropshire.
Council Support and Ongoing Work
West Mercia Police were supported by Staffordshire Police and Telford & Wrekin Council during the operation. Councillor Paul Davis, Cabinet Member for Strong Communities, Local Pride and Veterans, welcomed the proactive work.
"Many residents are surprised to learn that privately owned e-scooters cannot currently be used in most public places, despite being widely available to buy," he said. "Raising awareness of the rules is an important part of helping people stay safe and avoid inadvertently breaking the law."
Councillor Davis added that the council will continue to work with partners to support initiatives that keep Telford and Wrekin's town centres, neighbourhoods and public spaces safe. He also thanked the police for their efforts in addressing the issue.
