Call for more resources to tackle illegal e-bikes as West Lothian residents "fed up" with lack of action
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Mr Poynton said it is a common issue raised during street surgeries in his constituency
A West Lothian MP has said residents affected by illegal off-road bikes and modified e-bikes do not report incidents because they feel nothing will be done to solve the issue.
Gregor Poynton, Labour MP for Livingston, has written to the Scottish Government urging it to allocate funds to tackle the issue of illegal off-road bikes, modified e-bikes and motorised scooters being ridden dangerously through residential streets and parks and on footpaths.
Mr Poynton said it is a common issue raised during street surgeries in his constituency – with residents telling him they are “fed up” with the issue.
He is now calling for more resources to help Police Scotland tackle the problem.
He added: "People tell me they often don't bother reporting incidents because they feel nothing will happen. That has to change.
"Police Scotland works incredibly hard, but officers need the resources to tackle this issue proactively, not simply respond after the fact.
"The SNP Scottish Government should properly fund dedicated enforcement operations, invest in technologies like drones to help locate offenders safely, and ensure officers have the capacity to seize dangerous illegal vehicles and take them off our streets for good wherever the law allows.
"Communities deserve to feel safe in their own neighbourhoods. That means backing Police Scotland with the resources they need to take real action."
Speaking for Police Scotland, Inspector Carlyn Simpson said: “We are committed to tackling anti-social behaviour associated with all types of e-bikes and scooters in West Lothian.
“High visibility and plain clothed patrols are deployed, supported by our road policing and other specialist units.
“Extensive enquiries are happening behind the scenes to develop intelligence, and we meet regularly with our partners to share information. We also deliver inputs to schools across the area to cover key safety messaging.
“Anyone purchasing an e-scooter or e-bike should be aware of the legal limitations, they are classed as motor vehicles and cannot be used on public roads without insurance. In certain circumstances, officers have powers to seize machines retrospectively.
“I would encourage people to continue to make us aware of any issues and concerns by calling 101 or using the online reporting form. If e-bikes and scooters are being driven dangerously and putting others at risk, please call 999 to make a report.”
Data released following a freedom of information request showed that in the four years up to June 2026, there had been 60 seizures of motorcycles, e-bikes, quad bikes and e-pedal cycles in West Lothian by Police Scotland. it also showed 22 vehicles were seized during 2025.
E-bikes are legally permitted on public roads if they meet specific criteria – including not exceeding speeds of 15.5 mph and maximum power must not exceed 250 watts.
A spate of incidents in West Lothian led Police Scotland to issue an appeal for information after the bikes were “used in a manner causing concern within the community”.
Speaking at Holyrood in June, Minister for Victims and Community Safety, Kirsten Oswald said that she had urged the UK Government to act on licensing off-road vehicles.
The Scottish Government have been approached for comment.