The council has announced it is cracking down on illegal off-road bike usage on green areas and footpaths around the borough.
Caerphilly County Borough Council is working in partnership with Gwent Police to tackle “reckless” individuals causing damage to green open spaces and risking pedestrians’ safety by riding off-road bikes and quad bikes in unsuitable areas.
The council has received reports of a number of areas where such activities are causing a “significant blot” on the landscape.
The council’s Head of Public Protection, Rob Hartshorn, said: “I want to reassure residents that we take all reports of criminal and anti-social behaviour seriously and working with Gwent Police we will take strong action against those responsible.”
Residents are urged to report criminal matters to Gwent Police on 101, Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Tenancy Enforcement Section on 01495 235448, or anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 0800555111.
Gwent Police have openly stated on many occasions ( PACT meetings & press releases ) that they will not pursue these off road riders due to Health & Safety issues for the Rider,;officers involved and members of the publics safety.
The only way they can take action is if they can identify the offenders and with many now wearing full face helmets that is unlikely.
This is another smokescreen by the Authorities.
Could not have said it better myself
I would like to ask Mr Hartshorn what authority his wardens have to prevent anti social behaviour? answer NONE. I would like to remind the council that only the police have the authority to deal with these issue. As for working in partnership i have never seen thr council working with the police. So once again lets leave policing to the police
So mr Hartshorn is combating Anti Social behaviour by calling the Police or by ringing tennancy enforcement! So what role does the council wardens have in this? None so why are wasting money on this department surely this money would be better off going else where
The majority of Local Authorities do not employ Neighbourhood Wardens – relying on police to deal with antisocial behaviour ( quite right too – as they are the only people with the relevant powers ).
In these times of austerity why are Caerphilly wasting money in this way ?
Is it to appease Councillors – who seem to think that these people can replace the lack of visible police presence ?
As council tax payers we should be asking the Chief Executive this very question.
Hopefully come the May local elections both the Labour administration and this department will be history – and the funding put to a much better use.
Well said that man, as far as i can see these warden types are waste of tax payers money