Voice of the MP - Chatham and Aylesford

Chatham and Aylesford MP Tristan Osborne on antisocial behaviour and off-road vehicles

Editor’s note: Each month, we publish a guest column from one of Medway’s elected representatives, rotating between our MPs, council and opposition leaders, and the Police and Crime Commissioner. Today, we welcome Chatham & Aylesford MP Tris Osbourne, who discusses the challenges of anti-social behaviour and off-road vehicles.

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Voice of the MP

by Tris Osbourne, MP for Chatham and Aylesford

Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour and Illegal Off-Road Vehicles: A Safer Future for Our Communities

It's fair to say there's a problem that’s been making life harder for many of us— antisocial behaviour and the use of illegal off-road bikes, e-scooters, and other nuisance vehicles causing chaos in our streets and public spaces. It’s not just about the noise and disruption, but the real safety risks that come with these reckless drivers. I’ve heard from so many people in my constituency about the frustration of seeing off-road bikes zooming through residential areas, parks, and even farmland. And this problem isn’t isolated—it’s happening across the country, and it's high time we address it.

The Reality of the Problem

You don’t have to look far to see how these vehicles are becoming a bigger issue. They are being used in parks, on the roads, and in places where they simply shouldn’t be—without helmets, no proper registration, and often with no concern for pedestrians, cyclists, or other road users. The noise can be unbearable, and the risks to everyone involved are real.

But the issue goes deeper than just an annoying inconvenience. These illegal vehicles are often linked to wider criminal activities like gang-related violence and drug trafficking. So, this isn’t just about public nuisance—it’s about keeping our communities safe from crime.

Last year, police recorded more than one million incidents of anti-social behaviour across the country, including a worrying rise in theft and violent crime. Our communities deserve better, and we can no longer afford to ignore the growing impact these illegal vehicles and anti-social behaviours are having.

My Plans to Help Tackle the Issue

The new Crime and Policing Bill seeks to address these problems head-on. This bill is a much-needed overhaul of our crime laws, with measures designed to give the police the tools they need to deal with issues like anti-social behaviour and illegal vehicles.

Respect Orders will ensure that worst offenders will face tough consequences while immediate vehicle seizure powers can tackle repeat offenders who have been exploiting loopholes. This means the police don't have to warn repeat offenders before acting.

More broadly, we're increasing police presence with 13,000 new officers, ensuring that law enforcement is visible in our communities ready to tackle these issues as they come.

A great example of this already working can be found in Medway, where a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) has helped clamp down on nuisance vehicles. Since my introduction of the order last year, police and safety officers have been able to take stronger action, resulting in more fines and enforcement. This has shown that we can make real progress when we act decisively.

I have recently met with the police, urging them that more needs to be done to address the concerns of our community and ensure the safety of all residents. During our discussions, I emphasised the importance of proactive measures and stronger community engagement to tackle ongoing issues. I will continue to have such meetings.

In Parliament, I recently attended a Westminster Hall debate on the issue of anti-social behaviour and the use of illegal off-road bikes, knowing that we must go further in tackling this important issue which affects countless people in Medway and beyond. I will also continue to stay up to date on these issues and show support for them when needed.

More Needs to Be Done

While these steps are a great start, there’s still much more to do. Anti-social behaviour has been left unchecked for far too long, and we need to make sure that the people tasked with tackling it have the resources they need to do the job properly.

We can tackle this issue by increasing funding for local enforcement teams, deploying more rapid-response cameras, and imposing tougher penalties on repeat offenders. Seizing vehicles is a step in the right direction, but it's not enough - we need to ensure that those who repeatedly break the law face real consequences. At the same time, improving reporting systems will make it easier for residents to report anti-social behaviour, ensuring their concerns are taken seriously and acted upon.

However, enforcement alone won't solve the problem. We need to address the root causes, especially when it comes to young people. That means investing in youth services, expanding local sports programs, and providing better job training opportunities. By giving young people positive alternatives, we can steer them away from crime and towards a better future.

Working Together for a Safer Community

The truth is, while the government and the police play a key role, we all have a part to play in making our community safer. We need everyone on board—local businesses, neighbourhood watch groups, and residents must work alongside the police to help make our streets and public spaces safer.

Local councils should also have the flexibility to introduce measures that work for each community, like designated safe spaces for young people, or better street lighting. It’s also about giving communities the power to take control of their own safety.

Looking Ahead: A Safer Future for Our Community

The illegal use of off-road bikes and anti-social behaviour affects everyone. Whether it’s the noise disturbing your peace or the safety risks on our roads, it’s time to take a stand, and I’m committed to making sure we have the tools, the support, and the determination to tackle this issue head-on.

Together, we can create a community where we all feel safe, respected, and proud of where we live. I’m confident that with the steps we’re taking and the support of our local community, we can make a real difference.

Let’s work together to end the disruption, protect our public spaces, and ensure our streets are places where everyone can feel safe.

Tristan Osborne is the Labour MP for Chatham and Aylesford.