E-scooters seized in Coventry city centre as police enforce ban

New rules permit officers to seize e-bikes that do not comply with speed or engine power requirements

An e-bike and two e-scooters have been seized by police as a ban on riding in pedestrian areas in a city came into force.

A Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) was introduced in parts of Coventry due to anti-social use of the machines.

Under the new rules, police also issued 11 fixed penalty notices for breaching the order.

West Midlands Police said it had stepped up its patrols and was working to "keep the streets safe."

The new rules state anyone using an e-bike or e-scooter must dismount in designated pedestrian areas, with the exception of disabled riders and mobility scooter users.

The restrictions cover pedestrianised areas including Broadgate, Upper Precinct, Market Way, Smithford Way, Shelton Square, Hertford Street and Bull Yard.

The PSPO allows officers to issue fines and to seize machines that do not comply with engine power and maximum speed rules in the city centre.