The High Court has officially banned dangerous car meets in parts of Central London, prohibiting motorists from racing, performing stunts, and organizing gatherings in areas such as Knightsbridge, Belgravia, St James, Hyde Park, and the West End. The ruling, issued on Friday, June 19, aims to crack down on antisocial behavior that has plagued residents and businesses, particularly late at night.
Background of the crackdown
Westminster City Council applied for a borough-wide injunction in April this year after repeated complaints about car meets causing noise and dangerous stunts, including burnouts and doughnuts, performed with modified cars. Hotspots like Exhibition Road, Pall Mall, and parts of Soho have been regular gathering points for drivers, leading to significant disruption.
Council and police response
The council is also planning physical deterrents, such as anti-skid road surfaces in popular spots like Exhibition Road, to complement the legal measures. Councillor Rachel Robathan, Conservative representative for Knightsbridge and Belgravia and former council leader, has been a vocal advocate for action. She welcomed the injunction, stating: "I am delighted that, working with the police, we have finally secured this injunction which makes car meets illegal and gives the police the powers to arrest. These highly dangerous and disruptive stunts and road races have plagued my residents in Knightsbridge, as well as other areas covered in the injunction, for years so I hope that we can now finally end this for good."
Impact of the ruling
Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Enforcement, Cllr Caroline Sargent, emphasized the significance of the decision: "Antisocial driving is incredibly dangerous, and we do not want it in Westminster. This ruling is a fantastic result for the council and its partners which will make our streets safer whilst offering residents respite from the excessive noise." Anyone breaching the injunction could face large fines or vehicle seizure for excessively revving engines or driving dangerously.
