A Gwynedd councillor is calling for urgent action to tackle dangerous e-scooter use among children and young people.

Using e-scooters on public roads is illegal, and the issue of using e-scooters on streets and pavements in parts of the county has been brought up by Cllr Paul Rowlinson.

Cllr Rowlinson, who raised the issue as a notice of motion with the council, said: “There is a serious lack of awareness among parents and young people regarding the fact that using e-scooters on public roads is completely illegal. Few people understand that e-scooters fall within the legal definition of a motor vehicle and, therefore, require a driving licence, insurance and tax.”

In recent months, a number of constituents have contacted councillors to express concerns about dangerous behaviour, including children speeding down hills, two people sharing a single scooter, crossing busy roads, and riding without a helmet.

Plaid Cymru Gwynedd councillor, Paul Rowlinson, who represents the residents of Rachub on Gwynedd Council said: “During the summer, I witnessed two girls, aged around 10, sharing a scooter riding along the road and when they came to a junction they just whizzed across without stopping. Neither of these youngsters was wearing a helmet. I also received a report about two boys travelling along the A5 road into Bethesda on an e-scooter, and in the words of the eyewitness: “they were weaving from lane to lane!

“I certainly don’t want to stop children and young people from having fun, enjoying the fresh air, and being active, but I am increasingly concerned that these machines are dangerous, especially in the hands of young children. And in my opinion, there is nowhere near enough awareness or guidance available for parents to understand the dangers they pose when purchasing them.”

Although e-scooter trials are being held in some areas of the United Kingdom, there is no such scheme in Gwynedd. This means that any use on public roads is against the law. The police warn that this can lead to an e-scooter being seized and a £300 fine, along with 6 points on the rider's driving licence.

North Wales Police note that some e-scooters can reach speeds of up to 70 miles per hour, highlighting the danger this creates when inexperienced children or young people use them in public places.

“We are concerned about the safety and well-being of the users themselves, as well as the safety of the elderly and visually impaired people walking along our streets in Gwynedd,” he added.

“That is the reason I call on the Welsh Government and the UK Government to take action by considering what new measures or regulations could be introduced to tackle the problem, including public awareness campaigns for parents and young people, clear guidance on the legal status of e-scooters, and the consideration of further safety measures or regulations that could be introduced.”

Council members agreed unanimously to support Cllr Rowlinson’s call, and correspondence will be sent to both governments to press for action.