Masked riders on e-bikes and e-scooters are causing alarm in Renfrewshire communities, with councillors holding talks with Police Scotland to address the issue. The riders, often wearing black clothing and masks, have been spotted on cycle paths and public roads, intimidating other users.
Councillors Meet Police Over Project Trail
Independent councillors Andy Doig, Will Mylet, Eddie Devine, and John Hood met officers at Renfrewshire House on Tuesday to discuss the crackdown. Police Scotland launched Project Trail in late June to tackle illegal use of e-bikes, e-scooters, and off-road bikes. The operation is set to run until late August.
Councillor Doig, representing Johnstone North and surrounding villages, said: "We expressed the disquiet felt by our constituents over this problem. In my ward, constituents in both Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch have alerted me to increasing e-bike and e-scooter activity on the NCR 7 cycle path, which connects to Paisley and beyond. Invariably these are individuals wearing black clothing and masked up. This is intimidating to cycle path users."
Legal Framework and Enforcement
While it is legal to purchase e-bikes and e-scooters in Scotland, specific regulations apply. E-bikes must meet certain requirements to be treated as pedal bikes, while privately owned e-scooters cannot be used on public roads, pavements, or other public places. They are only allowed on private land with the owner's permission.
Police have the power to seize vehicles used illegally and can bring charges against riders. Councillor Mylet, representing Paisley East and Central, said it was "good" to meet with the area commander to discuss ongoing work addressing irresponsible use. Councillor Devine, from Paisley Southeast, added: "In my ward there are rising concerns about anti-social behaviour due to e-bike and e-scooter related crime and this is the case for all of us. It was great that we all had the chance to learn about Project Trail – especially great was the chance to learn that Police Scotland are looking to employ drone technology to tackle this problem."
Community Appeal
Residents with information that could help identify masked riders are urged to contact police on 101. Last month, Inspector Ross Wilson of the Renfrewshire Community Policing Team said: "The legislation around their use exists to protect the public and should they be used illegally then policing powers will be used. I appreciate that these vehicles have been purchased legally but I encourage both the riders and parents to be aware of the legislation and the risk associated with utilising them in public, not just to the rider but the wider public. I am also aware that a number of those riding these off-road bikes are doing so in an anti-social and dangerous manner with no consideration for other road users. These riders are often wearing masks hiding their identity with no protective clothing."
Inspector Wilson encouraged community members to provide CCTV, Ring doorbell, or dash-cam footage to police via 101 or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
