Corby police begin crackdown on illegal e‑scooters and e‑bikes
Operation aims to ensure public safety on roads and pavements
Police in Corby have begun seizing illegal e‑scooters and e‑bikes from riders as part of a new enforcement phase launched today (2nd June).
The move follows weeks of education work under “Operation Tides”, with officers warning that anyone caught using the vehicles unlawfully could face fines and have them confiscated.
Neighbourhood policing inspector Matt Rock said people can expect a visible increase in patrols across the town.
“There’ll be officers out most evenings and during the day where required, targeting areas with high footfall,” he said.
“We will be stopping people and seizing illegal vehicles.”
Focus on safety after tragedy
The crackdown comes after the death of 13‑year‑old Ella Walden, who died on Tuesday, April 7th following an incident involving an e‑bike in Elizabeth Street, Corby.
Her mother, Stacey Walden, has backed the campaign and is calling for greater awareness of the risks.
“Our lives will never be complete again after losing our beautiful Ella,” she said.
“As a family, we want to do everything we can so this doesn’t happen to another child.”
Police say the campaign is aimed at preventing further serious injuries and raising awareness among young people and parents.
Education before enforcement
Operation Tides began in mid‑May with officers visiting schools, speaking to staff and pupils and handing out information to families about the law.
Inspector Rock said many people were either unaware of the rules or choosing to ignore them.
“We’ve tried to give everyone the opportunity to understand the legislation first,” he said.
“From today, we will take firm action.”
Officers have already reported fewer e‑scooters being used in recent days, although police say it is too early to know if that trend will continue.
Extra patrols will focus on town centre areas, commuter routes to workplaces, cycle paths and industrial estates, where police say illegal riding poses the greatest risk, particularly to pedestrians.
What the law says
E-scooters are classed as motor vehicles under the Road Traffic Act 1988. This means the rules that apply to motor vehicles also apply to e-scooters, including the need to have a licence and insurance.
Privately owned e‑scooters cannot be used on public roads, pavements or in public spaces, and rental e‑scooters can only be used through authorised schemes and require a driving licence.
According to the police, if you use a privately-owned e-scooter in public, you risk the vehicle being seized under S.165 Road Traffic Act 1988 for having no insurance.
For e‑bikes, riders must be at least 14 years old, and the bikes must have a maximum power output of 250 watts with an assisted speed that does not exceed 15.5mph. Anything above those limits is treated as a motor vehicle and subject to stricter legislation.
“Zero tolerance” approach
Inspector Rock said officers have been told to take a “zero tolerance” approach, although the focus will remain on safeguarding rather than punishment, especially for children.
“We’re not looking to prosecute children where we don’t have to, but we will take the vehicles,” he said.
“Ultimately, it’s about preventing harm.”
Repeated offences could lead to more serious consequences, including court action and driving penalties.
Long‑term plan
Police say the operation will continue beyond June and could be expanded to other areas if successful.
“The goal is that people understand the law, understand the risks, and that we actually will take action,” Inspector Rock added.
“If we can prevent even one serious injury, it’s worth it.”
Officers are urging parents to speak to their children about the dangers and legal implications ahead of the summer months.
To find out more about Operation Tides visit Northamptonshire Police's website.
Police are urging anyone who witnesses illegal use of e‑scooters or e‑bikes to report it by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency.