'Nuisance' e-bikes are still causing problems in Dumfriesshire

IN recent months, the issue of e-scooters and e-bikes has been raised repeatedly across the region with residents’ concerns being voiced in Annan, Dumfries, Lockerbie and Moffat. It is currently against the law in the UK to use a privately owned e-scooter on public land.

Meanwhile, e-bikes are only legal if they meet certain requirements. The bike must have pedals that can be used to propel it. The electric motor should have a maximum power output of 250 watts and it should not be able to propel the bike when its travelling more than 15.5mph. Any electric bike that does not meet the rules is classed as a motorcycle or moped and must be registered and taxed. South Scotland MSP Craig Hoy has voiced his own concerns over the growing problem of e-scooters and e-bikes causing alarm and danger during anti-social behaviour incidents in Dumfriesshire. In the summer recess, he has been knocking on doors and hand-delivering survey forms to thousands of households. Feedback received on e-bikes and e-scooters has been alarming. Mr Hoy said: “I am concerned to hear and read what residents are saying about e-scooters and e-Bikes. Riders travelling at speeds in excess of 40 mph are risking people’s lives – including their own – and are creating a nuisance in the communities they pass through, with particular concerns among older residents.” The MSP is calling for concerted action from the Scottish Government, police and the council to prevent a serious injury taking place or e-Scooters being used to commit crime. Mr Hoy added: “The SNP Government must ensure that reckless riders are properly punished when caught. Regulations exist to be followed and enforced. Without consequences, we risk Dumfriesshire’s crime statistics rising and the likelihood of serious injury increasing.” The politician revealed he recently witnessed an elderly resident nearly being hit while stepping off a pavement in Moffat late on a Sunday afternoon. He is set to meet with local police and says this, along with other matters, will be discussed. Mr Hoy said: “I have been alongside e-bikes and e-scooters when they’ve sped past on pavements and on roads. They are silent and therefore often more dangerous as they cannot be heard approaching. "They can potentially knock pedestrians down and cause serious injuries. This cannot be tolerated. I will work with police locally and press the Scottish Government for more action on this issue.”