Four kissing gates are being installed on Harlow Common and in Church Langley to prevent antisocial behaviour by people riding motorbikes offroad.
The two areas have been blighted by the problem and the council has taken action to restrict access in response to concerns from residents and the police. Cyclists, walkers and wheelchair users will still be able to get through the gates to access Church Langley and Harlow common.
The gates are being installed in key access locations at Hobbs Farm, near Malkin Drive, and at the end of Kingsdon Lane, leading through to Coalport Close. The Hobbs Farm gates are currently being installed with the Kingsdon Lane gates to follow shortly.
Councillor Nicky Purse, Church Langley councillor and cabinet portfolio holder for sustainability and environment, said:
“The issue of antisocial and nuisance offroad motorbikes is not one restricted to this area but I am pleased to see we are making a start on taking action against it. The people who ride these motorbikes across our fields, commons and cycle paths often do so at dangerous speeds and it is only a matter of time before a serious accident occurs, so this action will be welcomed by residents living in the local area. The measures will be reviewed and monitored working with residents to ensure they are working successfully.
“We are committed to protecting our green spaces and making them as safe as possible for our residents to enjoy .”