Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Sunday 16th March 2025, at 17:00hrs
Skelmersdale residents are seeing a renewed effort to combat anti-social behaviour (ASB) caused by illegal off-road vehicles, as the Skelmersdale Neighbourhood Police Team (NPT) and Lancashire Rural Task Force launched “Operation Propulsion” this weekend.
The operation, supported by Beacon Rangers, saw joint patrols conducted across known hotspot areas, targeting riders of off-road motorcycles, scooters, and quad bikes who have been causing significant disruption and concern within the community.
Responding to feedback gathered through “In The Know” surveys, officers deployed both uniformed and plain-clothed patrols to disrupt illegal activity on green spaces and public areas. A key focus of the operation was addressing the nuisance caused by e-scooter riders in the vicinity of the McDonald’s drive-through, where individuals were reportedly endangering other road users.
As a result, Section 59 warnings were issued, and parents were contacted to retrieve their children from the area.
“We are taking residents’ concerns seriously,” stated a spokesperson for the Skelmersdale NPT. “The feedback we receive through ‘In The Know’ surveys is crucial in guiding our patrols and ensuring we target the areas where ASB is having the greatest impact.”
The initial weekend of Operation Propulsion yielded significant results, with two dirt bikes seized and recovered through the collaborative efforts of the NPT, Rural Task Force, and Beacon Rangers.
Officers utilized proactive policing tactics to disrupt illegal riding and prevent future incidents.
Authorities are urging residents to continue reporting incidents of anti-social behaviour, emphasizing the importance of accurate and up-to-date information in directing patrols.
“The more you tell us, the more you can influence what we do and where we patrol,” the spokesperson added.
Operation Propulsion is set to continue throughout the year, with ongoing joint patrols planned to address the persistent issue of illegal off-road vehicle use.
The police are committed to maintaining a visible presence and taking action against those who disrupt the peace and safety of the community.
“#YouSaidWeDid #CommunityConcerns #OpPropulsion” were used in the original release, and highlight the police’s response to community feedback.
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