Exclusive

Locals hit out at 'irresponsible' Paisley e-bike riders

Councillor Janis McDonald insists e-bikes are causing a "nuisance" in the community <i>(Image: Supplied)</i>
Councillor Janis McDonald insists e-bikes are causing a "nuisance" in the community (Image: Supplied)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.

Calls have been made for "tougher action" to be taken against "irresponsible" e-bike riders in Paisley.

Councillor Janis McDonald insists constituents have "continually raised concerns" about e-bikes having a "negative impact on the local landscape".

She also claims the vehicles are causing a "nuisance" through "noise pollution".

It comes as grass football pitches in Ferguslie have repeatedly been damaged by off-road bikes in recent months.

The Scottish Labour politician said: "I appreciate that modes of travel and leisure pursuits are changing however, I would ask off-road bike users to appreciate that the noise is a nuisance. If they are being used near homes, many people are intimidated by the speed or fearing accidents.

"I would ask that as part of the community to work with allies to create accessible and appropriate sites to pursue their interests.

"Many sports teams use the pitches and games needed to be relocated at short notice.

"Training has also been disrupted and it may take several weeks for repairs to be made due to weather and other challenges."

E-bike riders have allegedly been causing damage to grass pitches in Ferguslie (Image: Supplied)

Councillor McDonald feels more has to be done to combat the issue (Image: Supplied)

READ MORE: Paisley-born rock star to play gig aged 80 after American success

Police Scotland published their latest guidance on e-bikes and e-scooters back in March as the vehicles became increasingly common in towns and cities throughout the country.

Requirements include that the motor should not be able to propel the bike when it is travelling more than 15.5mph and must have a maximum power output of 250 watts.

Machines that exceed these limits are motor vehicles and the rider must hold a full UK driving license, have insurance, and wear an approved helmet.

E-scooters, however, are not permitted on public roads, pavements or other public spaces, as they do not meet the necessary legal standards.

Their use is only legal on private land with the landowner's consent.

McDonald also opened up on a recent trip to Fife, in which she learned how the area had dealt with similar issues with e-bikes.

She feels similar procedures could be put in place in Paisley

McDonald continued: "The police are supportive of any preventative or diversionary activity that stops enforcement being required.

"The local team supported a visit to the Kingdom Off Road Motorcycle Club, to see what could be provided to prevent criminality, develop training and skills and also offer diversion from prosecution.

"On the visit, I learned that while I know little about off-road biking, offering facilities has a tremendous impact.

"I spoke directly with some young people who were attending a course for various reasons. They all described learning skills in bike handling, repairs and maintenance, and building confidence too.

"One young woman told me she had learned so much, she had applied and been accepted to the army.

"It was a very positive experience, in a very supportive environment."

Get involved
with the news

Send your news & photos