Birmingham Cracks Down on Street Cruising with High Court Injunction
Birmingham City Council is taking a hard line on street cruising. They’re seeking a High Court injunction, backed by a power of arrest, to ban all street cruising on city roads. The interim hearing is set for next week at the Royal Courts of Justice in London (20 December 2022).
Full Ban on Street Cruising and Spectating
If granted, the injunction will make it illegal not just to take part in street cruising but also to spectate. Anyone caught breaking the order faces arrest, up to two years behind bars, hefty fines, or even asset seizures. Last week, the court gave the council the go-ahead to serve the injunction by alternative means, speeding up enforcement.
Council and Police Strike Back Against Dangerous Behaviour
“Street cruising is dangerous as well as being a nuisance for law-abiding citizens,” said Cllr John Cotton, Cabinet Member for Social Justice, Community Safety and Equalities. “We share residents’ concerns and are cracking down on this life-threatening anti-social behaviour.”
“There are plenty of lawful ways to show off vehicles – our roads aren’t one of them.”
Chief Superintendent Ian Green of West Midlands Police added: “We’ve worked closely with local authorities for years to tackle reckless driving that endangers lives. Illegal car gatherings cause chaos for communities and the public.”
“Officers from neighbourhood teams and specialist traffic units are dedicated to enforcing this ban, working with insurers, and offering educational courses. We’ll target organisers, spectators, and anyone promoting these events.”
Black Country Joins the Fight
The court will also hear an application from Wolverhampton City Council representing Black Country local authorities to extend similar measures across the region.
Full details on the injunction, evidence, and legal documents are available at Birmingham City Council’s website.
