Dudley Council has formally backed a motion pressing for a stronger response to illegal and anti-social e-scooter use after a serious collision in Stourbridge left a 73-year-old pedestrian in hospital.
Cross-party support for tougher enforcement
The motion, brought by Liberal Democrat councillor Andrew Tromans, was accepted by councillors from across the chamber. It calls for stepped-up enforcement, public awareness and enhanced partnership working involving the council, West Midlands Police and local communities to address the problem.
"I'm delighted that councillors from across the chamber recognised the importance of this issue and supported the motion,"
Councillor Tromans highlighted the severity of the incident in Market Street, Stourbridge, where a 73-year-old was knocked down by an e-scooter last year. He said the episode demonstrated how dangerous irresponsible riding can be, particularly for older people, children and those with disabilities.
Legal position and local context
Privately owned e-scooters remain illegal to use on public roads, pavements and cycle lanes under current UK legislation. Dudley borough does not currently operate a trial e-scooter scheme, meaning most devices seen on public highways are unlicensed and in breach of the law.
The council emphasised that the motion targets reckless and anti-social behaviour, not legitimate transport innovation, and urged retailers to advise customers about the legal limits on e-scooter use.
- Incident prompting motion: 73-year-old pedestrian knocked down in Market Street, Stourbridge, and hospitalised.
- Requested actions: stronger enforcement, public education and partnership working with police and communities.
- Legal note: privately owned e-scooters are illegal on public roads, pavements and cycle lanes; Dudley has no rental scheme in place.
Next steps for the borough
The motion was drafted with input from a resident expressing concern about dangerous riding across the borough. Its approval signals the council’s intention to pursue coordinated measures aimed at reducing illegal e-scooter activity and protecting vulnerable pedestrians.
| Issue | Council response |
|---|---|
| Dangerous riding / collisions | Call for stricter enforcement and partnership with West Midlands Police |
| Public awareness | Campaigning and retailer engagement to inform lawful use |
| Local schemes | No authorised e-scooter scheme currently operating in Dudley |
Residents concerned about specific incidents should contact West Midlands Police or their local councillor. The council has indicated it will work with partners to translate the motion into practical measures to reduce risks to pedestrians in town centres and elsewhere across the borough.
