30.10.19
Birmingham City Council secure order against street cruising for an additional three years
The order which was first secured in 2016 by Birmingham City Council is now valid until September 1st 2022 meaning street cruising is banned for a further three years.
The definition of street cruising is a congregation of drivers of 2 or more motor vehicles, including motorcycles, between the hours of 7pm and 7am on the public highway or at any place to which with public have access within the Claimant’s local government area which in this case, the City of Birmingham.
The order has a power of arrest attached to it meaning a driver or passenger believed to have breached the terms can be arrested immediately and has to go before a court within 24 hours. If it’s proved a breach has taken place a fine or imprisonment, up to a maximum of two years, can be implemented. This also applies to people who go to watch such events, and by doing so encouraging street cruising.
During the last three years, the powers of the previous order have enabled the city council and its partners at West Midlands Police to arrest 30 people, with 16 defendants receiving suspended prison sentences, with one defendant being given an immediate custodial sentence.
Cllr John Cotton, Cabinet Member for Social Inclusion, Community Safety and Equalities at Birmingham City Council, said: “Street cruising is dangerous as well as being a nuisance for law-abiding citizens.
“By working with our partners at the police on this injunction, we have shown we understand and share the continued concerns raised by many residents, about this anti-social and life-threatening behaviour.
“Past court action shows that we won’t hesitate to ensure justice is served upon offenders, who have no excuse for their actions. There are plenty of lawful ways to exhibit and demonstrate their vehicles – but our roads are not the place for it.”
Superintendent Ian Green, from Birmingham Police, said: “We are determined to tackle reckless driving on our roads which puts the safety of others and themselves at risk.
“Alongside our partners we do not tolerate illegal car gatherings due to the danger and nuisance they create. We have officers dedicated to addressing the issue who are also working with the insurance industry.