Fears grow over dangerous e-scooter use by children in Kells and Broughshane

Braid Ulster Unionist representatives Sam Patton and Councillor Alan Barr

Residents in Kells and Broughshane have warned that it is “only a matter of time” before someone is seriously injured amid growing concerns over the dangerous misuse of e-scooters by children and young people across the area.

Braid Ulster Unionist representatives Sam Patton and Councillor Alan Barr say they have been contacted by multiple worried residents who claim e-scooters are being driven recklessly on footpaths, through residential streets and in busy public areas with little regard for pedestrian safety.

The concerns centre particularly around the increasing number of children and teenagers using the vehicles in built-up areas, with fears for elderly residents, parents with prams and young children walking in the community.

Residents fear serious accident could happen

Councillor Barr said local people are becoming increasingly alarmed at what they are witnessing daily across both villages.

He said:

“Residents are increasingly alarmed at the reckless and dangerous manner in which e-scooters are being used throughout Kells and Broughshane. These machines are being driven at speed on footpaths, around busy streets and through residential areas with little or no regard for the safety of others.”

Barr said the biggest concern is the age of many of those using the scooters and a lack of understanding around the dangers involved.

“The biggest concern is that many of those riding them are children and youths who simply do not appreciate the danger they pose both to themselves and to pedestrians.

“Elderly residents, parents pushing babies in buggies, young children and vulnerable pedestrians are all being put at risk.”

The issue reflects wider concerns seen across Northern Ireland in recent years as e-scooters have become increasingly common despite strict legal restrictions surrounding their use on public roads and pavements.

Representatives seek clarification from PSNI

Sam Patton said there remains significant public confusion around what is legal, what powers police have and how complaints are handled when e-scooters are being used illegally.

She said:

“We fully understand the frustration and concern being expressed by local people. There appears to be confusion surrounding the law, enforcement powers and what action can actually be taken when these scooters are being used illegally on public roads and footpaths.”

As a result, both representatives are now writing to the PSNI seeking urgent clarification around current policy on illegal e-scooter use and the enforcement powers available to officers.

They are also asking police what further steps can be taken to improve public awareness around the law and the risks associated with e-scooter use.

While calling for action, both representatives stressed that education should come before enforcement where possible, particularly when young people are involved.

Calls for greater awareness among parents and young people

Patton and Barr said there needs to be a stronger focus on informing families about both the legal implications and potential dangers linked to e-scooter use in public spaces.

They warned that communities should not have to wait until someone suffers a serious injury before action is taken.

They concluded:

“There needs to be greater awareness amongst parents and young people about the dangers and legal implications surrounding e-scooter use. We cannot wait until a serious accident occurs before action is taken.”

The issue is likely to resonate with many residents across the wider Ballymena area where concerns over speeding e-scooters on pavements and in housing developments have become increasingly common.