Warning vehicles could be seized after fearful plane spotters report …

Patrols will be maintained around East Midlands Airport (EMA)^[1] after reports of car cruising in the area – with dangerous drivers warned that their vehicles could be seized. Plane spotters had reported a series of incidents from drivers allegedly “revving” their cars loudly, while loud music was also played, leaving some “scared”.

The alleged cruising took place in the last few days in and around the Castle Donington-based airport. Some spotters claim that it was coming from the area near The Nags Head Bar and Grill as well as the Amazon base, reports NottinghamshireLive ^[2].

Warnings about the car cruising were issued by plane spotters online, with several altering people to “cars revving and wheel spinning” from those involved. Claims that “loud drill music” was also being played were made, with the situation leaving some plane spotters “scared” to carry out their hobby.

Officers from Leicestershire Police ^[4] have been contacted about the ongoing situation and have already taken out targeted patrols following the reports. In a statement, they said they will take action – including the seizing of vehicles – where required against those involved.

A force spokesperson said: “We are aware of ongoing reports in relation to large gatherings of motorists in parts of the Castle Donington area, a minority of which have been intent on using the local roads to cause anti-social behaviour. Targeted operations have been carried out in response to these reports, and local officers, supported by specialist roads policing resources, are currently carrying out dedicated extra patrols.

“A small number of those who attend these gatherings use their vehicles in an anti-social manner and we understand the negative impact this can have on local residents and those visiting the area, not to mention the obvious danger to other road users. Officers will educate and move on motorists where appropriate; but won’t shy away from issuing fixed penalty notices and seize vehicles when necessary.”

The spokesperson added that police will continue to work with North West Leicestershire District Council ^[5] to help coordinate regular patrols. Neighbourhood forces are also being contacted to help sure up patrols and ensure relevant action is being taken.

Andy Johnson, who often visits the viewing points and has enjoyed plane spotting for around 40 years, said the area is being used by youngsters to race their cars, which can create an “intimidating” atmosphere for some plane spotters.

“Now obviously these people have to congregate somewhere. Now it’s nothing to do with me really, but if people do that then they will actually start spoiling it (plane spotting) for other people who don’t do that.

“If you go there after hours and park up there once it gets dark, you could feel intimidated by the number of youngsters that are there. Kids that age are probably doing no harm, but it can be quite intimidating.”

Mr Johnson, from Hinckley in Leicestershire, often stops off at the airport when driving his son to and from Nottingham. He added that the car meets are taking place at viewing points at both ends of the runway, including the viewing point in Diseworth Road near the aeropark and the viewing point close to the M1.

Councillor Michael Wyatt, North West Leicestershire District Council Portfolio Holder for Community Services, said: “Drivers racing on public roads are a menace to society, they’re a danger to other road users and cause distress to residents. We are working with the community in Castle Donington, and the police, to bring it to a stop, but this is a national problem.

“A number plate recognition camera has been installed in Diseworth Road to help us catch offenders, and we regularly share evidence with the police when activity spreads to other areas, such as the strategic road network.

“A public spaces protection order (PSPO) banning car cruise activity has been in place in Castle Donington since 2021. Drivers caught breaching the order can be fined or £100, or taken to court for repeated offences.”

References

^{^} East Midlands Airport (EMA) (www.leicestermercury.co.uk)
^{^} reports NottinghamshireLive (www.nottinghampost.com)
^{^} East Midlands Airport to get ‘modest’ extension (www.leicestermercury.co.uk)
^{^} Leicestershire Police (www.leicestermercury.co.uk)
^{^} North West Leicestershire District Council (www.leicestermercury.co.uk)