Drivers Warned Vehicles Could Be Seized Over Noise at Penrith Car Wash
Drivers have been warned that their vehicles could be seized if anti-social behaviour continues at a car wash in Penrith.
Eden Police said concerns had been raised about motorists gathering at the car wash on Haweswater Road and creating excessive noise.
Reported behaviour includes drivers revving engines, repeatedly sounding car horns, playing loud music and shouting while at the site.
Although the car wash is within a mainly commercial area, police said the noise can still be heard from nearby housing estates and is affecting local residents.
Concerns Raised Through StreetSafe Survey
The issue was brought to the attention of officers following responses to a recent StreetSafe survey.
StreetSafe allows people to anonymously identify public places where they have felt unsafe. This can include concerns relating to environmental issues or anti-social behaviour, even if a specific crime has not been reported.
Police have now asked people using the car wash to consider the effect that unnecessary noise may have on those living nearby, particularly when vehicles gather for extended periods.
The warning is aimed at the drivers responsible for the reported behaviour rather than the car wash business itself.
CCTV Could Identify Drivers
CCTV is operating around the Haweswater Road area and could be used to identify the vehicles and people involved.
Eden Police said warning letters may be issued depending on the severity and frequency of the behaviour.
If problems continue, officers could use powers under Section 59 of the Police Reform Act 2002 to remove vehicles associated with anti-social driving.
Section 59 allows police to act when a vehicle is being used carelessly or without consideration for others in a way that causes, or is likely to cause, alarm, distress or annoyance.
This can include excessive engine revving, aggressive driving, carrying out dangerous manoeuvres or repeatedly using a vehicle to create a noise nuisance.
Police Ask Drivers to Respect Residents
Officers have asked motorists visiting the site to reduce their noise and behave responsibly.
While a single sounding horn or short period of engine noise may appear minor, repeated incidents involving several vehicles can cause significant disturbance to nearby homes.
Police have made clear that further action could be taken if the warnings are ignored and the behaviour continues.
Residents can report ongoing anti-social behaviour through the Cumbria Police website or by calling 101.
