Police seize 1,100 illegal e-bikes and e-scooters

More than 1,100 illegal e-bikes and e-scooters have been seized by a police force in 12 months.

Recent figures show Lancashire Police seized 415 illegal e-bikes during 2025/26, the fourth-highest total recorded by any force in England.

New laws regulating e-bikes and e-scooters could be introduced by the government amid growing concerns over their misuse.

Lancashire Police said some of the vehicles were ridden at high speeds through residential areas, on footpaths and in parks, and were frequently linked to wider anti-social behaviour and criminality.

They remain among the top concerns raised by residents, the force added.

It said officers were continuing "a major crackdown on illegal and anti-social use of electric bikes and scooters".

Ministers have confirmed they intend to bring forward legislation covering micromobility vehicles - small, lightweight forms of transport used for short journeys - including e-scooters, while extending existing e-scooter trials until May 2028 to gather further evidence.

During Transport questions in the House of Commons, Roads Minister Simon Lightwood said: "We have extended e-scooter trials until May 2028 to allow local authorities to test how the technology works.

"We have also committed to pursuing legislation, when parliamentary time allows, for the full regulation of micromobility… so they work for all people."

Hyndburn MP Sarah Smith welcomed the announcement, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

She said: "I am pleased to hear of the government's renewed commitment to bring in new laws to tackle e-bikes.

"I've had several constituents who have contacted me regarding this issue, and I know they will be glad to hear this news."

The Department for Transport had already indicated it planned to consult on detailed proposals for regulating e-scooters and tackling anti-social use before introducing wider legislation.

Currently, privately owned e-scooters remain illegal to use on public roads unless they meet the same requirements as motor vehicles, including insurance and licensing rules.

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