Police clampdown on illegal car meets

Officers at Macclesfield Local Policing Unit have launched a new operation as part of ongoing efforts to crackdown on illegal car meets in the area.

Over recent weeks police have been made aware of illegal car meets in Wilmslow, Macclesfield and Alderley Edge.

The meets can attract hundreds of people, many in high powered motor vehicles driving dangerously causing excessive noise and anti-social behaviour, all of which have caused alarm and distress to residents. 

In addition, many attendees park their vehicles on grass verges, roundabouts, pavements and block highways causing obstructions to enable drag strip style racing to take place.

A number of operations have taken place over recent years to tackle the issue, and police have been working closely with the local authority.

Following the recent reports, officers have now launched a new operation to crackdown on the issue.

 Chief Inspector Zoe Bowden, Head of Macclesfield Local Policing Unit, said:

“I understand the frustration and anger that illegal car meets cause. This is an ongoing problem in the local area, and I want to reassure residents that we are committed to doing all we can to tackle the issue.

“We have a zero-tolerance approach and will take action against those who break the law.

“This could include vehicle seizures, penalty notices, notifying insurance companies, dispersal notices or arrest and prosecution where necessary.

“We’ll also be actively working with our intelligence team to identify the organisers of such events, who could face the prospect of a criminal record.

“Our operation is not aimed at people meeting in their cars peacefully, simply those disrupting local communities and acting in an anti-social manner.

“Our message is clear – anti-social behaviour and anti-social use of vehicles will not be tolerated.”  

If you have any concerns or information on any criminal activity taking place, please contact us on 101 or dial 999 if it is an emergency.