Seventeen fined nearly £15k after illegal Trafford car meet
Seventeen people have been fined nearly £15,000 after taking part in an illegal car meet at Trafford, with police stepping in to disperse the gathering.
Seventeen individuals have been ordered to pay a total of £14,921 after taking part in an illegal car meet at Trafford Palazzo in March earlier this year.
The event, promoted on social media breached Trafford's Public Space Protection Order (PSPO), which prohibits unauthorised motoring events and antisocial driving.
On the evening of Thursday, March 13, Greater Manchester Police received reports of vehicles driving recklessly on Phoenix Way.
Officers from the Roads Policing Unit quickly responded, dispersing the gathering. However, the drivers regrouped near Manchester Airport where they were again dispersed by police.
Initially 29 people were issued £100 fines for breaching the PSPO. Following further investigation, 17 attendees were identified and brought to court, resulting in fines ranging from £408 to £1,780 each.
Chief Inspector Michael Parker from the Roads Policing Unit said, “It is dangerous and unacceptable to drive in an antisocial manner and puts residents at risk.
“I hope these fines send a clear message that we will not tolerate those who disregard the safety of others.”
Cllr Rose Thompson, Trafford Council's Executive Member for Communities and Safety said: “We will not tolerate this kind of behaviour in our borough and my thanks go to Greater Manchester Police for arresting those responsible. These car meets are extremely dangerous and a huge risk to our residents.”
This enforcement action highlights the commitment of Greater Manchester Police and Trafford Council to public safety and upholding local laws.