Drivers in three West Midlands towns face a new 3pm to 7am rule after the High Court granted an injunction banning 'street racing', also known as 'car cruising', in Wolverhampton, Sandwell, and Walsall.
Details of the Injunction
The local authority has warned: 'It forbids anyone who is a driver, rider or passenger in or on a motor vehicle to participate between the hours of 3pm and 7am in a gathering of two or more persons within the three council areas at which some of those present engage in motor racing or motor stunts or other dangerous or obstructive driving.'
It went on, adding: 'It also covers organisers and spectators, prohibiting people from promoting, organising or publicising gatherings, or from participating in a gathering as a spectator with the intention or expectation that some of those present will engage in street racing.'
Enforcement and Penalties
The injunction covers the whole of the boroughs of Wolverhampton, Sandwell, and Walsall and has a Power of Arrest attached, giving police the authority to arrest anyone who breaches it. Breach of an injunction is contempt of court and, if proved, the court can impose a sentence of imprisonment, a fine, or an order seizing a person's assets.
The injunction and power of arrest will remain in force until at least 1 March 2027.
How to Report Incidents
Incidents of street racing should be reported via asbu@wolverhamptonhomes.org.uk or to West Midlands Police on 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.
Police are also inviting members of the public to submit dash cam or mobile phone footage of street racing events or dangerous driving via its Op Snap website.
The application was led by the City of Wolverhampton Council on behalf of Sandwell Council and Walsall Council, and supported by West Midlands Police.
