U.K. Town Aims to Prohibit Motorcycle and Car Convoys in New Safety Initiative

In an effort to control vehicle gatherings without official approval, a UK town council is moving forward with plans to prohibit such activities. The Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council is introducing a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) that would make it illegal for groups of two or more vehicles, including car cruises, bike meets, and group rides, to gather in public spaces. Those who violate the order could face fines or fixed penalty notices amounting to 100 pounds sterling (RM569.33).

The council’s proposal comes in response to concerns raised by residents, who have reported the disruption caused by these gatherings. Councillor Gill Heesom pointed out that the noise from loud music, revving engines, dangerous driving, and wheel spinning—often late at night—has negatively affected the town’s residents, visitors, and businesses.

“We’ve received numerous complaints, and it’s clear these activities are diminishing people’s quality of life. Implementing a PSPO would allow us to put an end to this behavior,” Heesom added, emphasizing the importance of public feedback before the PSPO is officially enacted later this year.

In response to these measures, Staffordshire police clarified that enforcement would focus on those who repeatedly disrupt the community, rather than individuals participating in charity or legal events. Their aim is to address the behavior of specific groups that cause serious problems.

Meanwhile, in Malaysia, a series of reckless behaviors by motorcyclists on public roads, commonly shared on social media, has raised similar concerns. A recent case in Kuala Lumpur involved a motorcyclist acting as a “marshal,” obstructing a car to allow a convoy of motorcycles to pass.

Such incidents, often associated with the “Mat Rempit” culture—where mostly young riders engage in dangerous and illegal street racing—have resulted in accidents and inconvenienced other motorists. Despite various police crackdowns, little progress has been made, and the 2018 proposal for a law targeting “Mat Rempits” has yet to gain traction.