Nottinghamshire faces a surge of off-road drivers causing chaos in a local area
Mansfield: Police are dealing with a real headache from off-road drivers. These “aggressive” folks are coming from all over the country to a spot known as The Desert. It’s a large open area near the Oak Tree Lane Estate that used to be a favorite for walkers.
Unfortunately, the fun of riding off-road bikes and 4x4s has turned into a serious problem. Over the last six months, more than 20 vehicles have been seized. Nottinghamshire Police are stepping up their game with new 4x4s equipped with ANPR cameras to catch these reckless drivers.
PC George Twiddy from Nottinghamshire Police shared that this beautiful area should be enjoyed by families and walkers, not overrun by illegal off-road vehicles. It’s frustrating to see it being misused.
He emphasized that these drivers are coming from far and wide, thinking they can just ride wherever they want. But they need to know that if caught, there will be consequences. Their reckless behavior puts everyone at risk, and that’s just not okay.
Injuries can happen, and if they do, help might be a long way off. The Desert is remote, making it tough for ambulances to reach anyone in trouble.
Some drivers seem to think the police can’t patrol the area effectively, but that’s not the case. The police have had off-road bikes for a while, and now they have 4x4s with all the necessary gear to keep an eye on things.
The Desert is already under a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) that runs until 2025. This order bans riders from the area and gives police and council officers the power to fine or prosecute anyone breaking the rules.
