Biddenden

Road safety issues.

Neighbourhood officers have been carrying out patrols in Greenside, High Halden and surrounding areas to tackle vehicle-related concerns raised by the community. During a recent patrol, officers identified a vehicle that had been untaxed since July 2025. The vehicle was recovered, and the owner will be required to pay the relevant recovery and storage fees before it can be released. Further patrols were carried out around Orchards Field in Bethersden following reports from Neighbourhood Watch about nuisance vehicles. As a result, 2 vehicles were seized and recovered. The DVLA will now pursue any outstanding fees linked to those vehicles before they can be returned to their owners. If the owners do not come forward within the required timescale, the vehicles may be disposed of. This proactive work helps to address nuisance vehicles, improve road safety and respond to concerns raised by local residents.

Catapults.

Following the issuing of Community Protection Warnings (CPWs) relating to the misuse of catapults, there has been a noticeable reduction in catapult-related incidents in the area. A Community Protection Warning is a formal warning that can be issued when someone's behaviour is having a negative impact on the local community. Despite this improvement, officers continue to carry out high-visibility patrols in the Egerton area following recent reports and remain committed to addressing any further concerns. Residents are encouraged to report any incidents of antisocial behaviour or crime involving catapults so that appropriate action can be taken.

To help prevent future incidents, a new crime prevention video has been produced for local schools and young people. The video highlights the dangers and potential consequences of using catapults, including the impact they can have on people, property and wildlife. Officers are currently delivering this educational material in local schools as part of wider efforts to raise awareness, encourage responsible behaviour and keep the community safe.

Nuisance motorcycles.

Following reports from local residents about a pit bike being ridden in an antisocial manner between Bethersden and Great Chart, the local neighbourhood officer carried out enquiries and successfully identified both the rider and the motorcycle involved. As a result, a Section 59 warning was issued to the rider in the presence of a parent.

A Section 59 warning is a legal warning that police can issue when a vehicle is being used in a way that causes alarm, distress or annoyance to members of the public. The warning is recorded against both the rider and the vehicle. If the same rider or vehicle is involved in further antisocial use within 12 months, police have the power to seize the motorcycle. Officers will continue to respond to reports from the community and take action to address nuisance vehicle use and improve safety for local residents.