More untaxed and dangerous vehicles are on their way to the crusher as part of an ongoing crackdown across Middlesbrough.
In the latest day of action, Middlesbrough Council’s Environmental Team worked alongside Cleveland Police’s Neighbourhood Police Team to seize eight vehicles in the town’s Newport ward.
Seven of those seized were untaxed and one was removed for being abandoned after being served with a seven-day removal notice last week.
Untaxed – and therefore uninsured – vehicles will be towed away, with the their owners facing possible prosecution and an unlimited fine, a potential driving ban, higher insurance premiums and penalty points on their licence.
Seized vehicles incur a £100 release fee, which increases to £200 if the owner does not come forward within 24 hours, as well as a daily storage charge of £21 per day.
If the vehicle does not have a valid MOT, a surety fee of £160 is also payable, although the fee can be reclaimed if proof of vehicle tax is provided within 15 days.
Councillor Janet Thompson, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive member for Community Safety, said: “Untaxed and abandoned vehicles are potentially dangerous and act as magnets for crime and antisocial behaviour.
“They can blight whole neighbourhoods so we will continue this excellent work in partnership with Cleveland Police to get rid of them on behalf of law-abiding residents.”
Inspector Darren Birkett from Middlesbrough Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “A day of action has taken place and a number of vehicles which are being used criminally on our roads have been seized.
“We will continue to work with Middlesbrough Council to seize untaxed vehicles to ensure that members of the public are kept as safe as possible from unroadworthy vehicles.”
To report illegal vehicles or any crime, call Cleveland Police on 101, or Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111, or visit their website by clicking here.