Plymouth police take action against speeding and noisy vehicles on city roads
A new Plymouth road safety operation has targeted dangerous driving and excessive vehicle noise, following recent police work tackling illegal e-bikes and vehicle crime
Drivers have been caught speeding and vehicles with illegal number plates identified during a police operation targeting dangerous and antisocial driving in Plymouth.
The joint road safety operation took place last Thursday, 6 August, following concerns from local communities about speeding and excessive noise.
Police officers and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) carried out roadside checks on West Hoe Road, Millbay Road and Durnford Street.
Officers were looking for drivers deliberately making excessive noise from engines or music, as well as people speeding or driving recklessly.
During the operation, police identified:
- seven vehicles with illegal number plates
- two vehicles speeding on West Hoe Road
- six vehicles speeding on Millbay Road
- three vehicles speeding on Durnford Street
- two people driving without displaying L-plates
Police also said a number of vehicles failed to stop when signalled by officers.
Number plates were recorded and the drivers are expected to face prosecution in court.
Drivers have been reported for offences, with penalties including speed awareness courses, penalty points and fines to be issued where appropriate.
DVSA officers also issued seven motorcycles with delayed prohibitions because of illegal exhausts causing excessive noise.
The riders have one week to buy legal exhausts and complete a further MOT.
Police Inspector Olly Barrett, who took part in the operation, said dangerous and inconsiderate driving remained a concern for communities.
“We know dangerous and inconsiderate driving is a concern for our communities, particularly during the busy summer months when there are more people using our roads,” he said.
“Operations like this are an important part of our work to identify those who put others at risk and to take action against drivers who choose not to follow the law.”
He added that officers would continue proactive patrols and enforcement work across Devon and Cornwall.
“There is never an excuse for taking unnecessary risks behind the wheel,” Insp Barrett said.
“A moment's poor judgement can have life-changing consequences, so I would urge all road users to think carefully about their actions and the safety of others.”
The operation was carried out by the South Sector Neighbourhood Team and the Road Casualty Reduction Team alongside the DVSA.
It follows a separate two-day police operation in Plymouth in late July targeting antisocial riding and vehicle theft.
Operation Hyssop, carried out on 27 and 28 July, resulted in seven illegally modified e-bikes being seized, including one capable of speeds of up to 80mph.
Officers also seized mopeds and uninsured cars, made five arrests and recovered two stolen vehicles.
The latest operation was focused specifically on dangerous and antisocial driving, including speeding and excessive vehicle noise.
Police said the activity forms part of wider work to make roads safer across Devon and Cornwall.