Police take action against anti-social drivers in Eastbourne

Police Car / Incident Stock Pic (Pic by Jon Rigby) SUS-150605-141734001

Officers say they received numerous reports from business owners in the Hawthorn Industrial Estate that the area was being used for regular car meets.

During these meets, a minority of motorists were doing tyre burnouts and donuts causing damage to the road surface causing damage to the road surface.

On one occasion, a business premises had its window smashed from grit thrown up from the car park while a vehicle was doing a tyre burnout.

Police say the area was often left with lots of litter and the matter was causing concern for many people working in the vicinity.

Officers responding to the issues used CCTV footage to identify a number of key offenders, who were then interviewed.

Three warnings were issued under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002 for drivers reported to have used their vehicle in a manner which causes alarm, distress or annoyance.

A Vehicle Defect Rectification Scheme ticket was issued, as well as a Traffic Offence Report for careless driving.

One driver was prosecuted for driving without insurance and for not adhering to the conditions of a provisional licence holder. He was fined £284 and his licence was endorsed with six penalty points.

PCSO Julian Williams, from the Eastbourne Neighbourhood Policing Team, said, “The anti-social driving in Hawthorn Industrial Estate was becoming a real issue for business owners and workers in the area.

“Not only was it causing emotional distress, but there were also financial implications from repairing the damage caused by these motorists.

“We responded effectively to their concerns, and engaged with drivers to highlight the importance of safe and considerate behaviour when they’re driving.

“The problem arose in the summer and the case went before the court in late December. We’re pleased to say as a result of this conviction and our other enforcement action, the area is no longer affected by persistent anti-social driving.

“This is just part of our response to anti-social driving across Eastbourne and we will continue to address any inconsiderate behaviour.”