Council to tackle use of e-scooters and other off-road vehicles on their land

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council is to take action against the unauthorised use of scramblers, quads and other off-road vehicles on its land. The plan which focuses on prevention, education and enforcement, was backed at a committee meeting and goes to full council next week for ratification.

The recommendation to address community concern was endorsed at the Active and Healthy Communities Committee on 18 May. Off-road vehicles are not permitted on pavements, public roads or public spaces and can only be used on private land with the owner's permission.

Concern has been particularly raised about off-road vehicle use on council land in Newry and Downpatrick, with the issue a regular topic at District Electoral Area Forum meetings and at the Newry and Mourne Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP).

The problem is not confined to younger users. More adults are now using scramblers, while e-scooters are common among younger people. The council has engaged with other councils to learn how they are dealing with what is a widespread problem, with those discussions helping to shape a local response.

Officials plan to hold an inter-agency meeting focused on hotspot areas to agree a district-wide approach. This will include an awareness campaign to help off-road vehicle users understand the legal and safety risks, as well as guidance for residents on how to report incidents correctly.

The council's Youth Service will also be involved, with plans for educational workshops and diversionary activities in hotspot areas. Community groups are being encouraged to develop their own local solutions, with funding support available through the PCSP's small grants scheme. Applications are open until noon on 15 June 2026. Further information is available at www.newrymournedown.org and click the PCSP link or by emailing pcsp@nmandd.org.

Council Chairperson Councillor Philip Campbell said the risks posed by unauthorised off-road use had to be addressed. "It's important the issue of unauthorised off-road vehicles using council land is addressed given the danger it poses to those who ride these machines and the public."

Cllr Campbell added: "A partnership approach is needed to address an issue which not only poses a threat to public safety but impacts on the environment. Prevention, education and enforcement is the best approach to ensure council land is safe for everyone who uses it."