Boy racers are claimed to be turning Mumbles into a race track, sparking complaints from residents over loud cars. People living in the area fear someone will be killed unless action is taken to curb the problem, because of the speeds the drivers are reaching.
Local police inspector for South Wales Police, Judith Martin, said they were aware of concerns that had been raised via social media in relation to boy racers in Mumbles and that, although they had not received many reports, they would work with the community on the issue.
Leanne Richards is one of the people who has witnessed drivers racing through the village. She said she had tried to slow some of the drivers down, but they just ignored her. You can get more Mumbles news and other story updates by subscribing to our newsletters here.
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“I was walking home past the cab rank having just got off the late bus and there were lots of people around coming out of the bars etc, when three cars all close together came hurtling along the road at an absolutely ridiculous speed. I was waving my arms up and down in attempt to slow them down but they carried on followed by another car," she said.
“As I walked home towards The George there were more of these idiots using the main road like a race track. Someone is going to get killed soon if this is not stopped. It was busy with people leaving pubs, some not too steady on their feet and I was fearful of a serious accident happening. Mumbles is being ignored when it comes to slowing down traffic. Something needs to be done.”
There have been complaints in previous years that noisy, fast cars have been causing problems in the area and disturbing people by revving their loud engines. Bracelet Bay, Langland and Caswell Bays are sometimes popular places for drivers to meet, with a number gathered on a nightly basis in the car park next to Castellemare by Bracelet Bay. They can also be seen driving at high speed too and from that car park. You can read more stories about Mumbles here.
Another resident, Michael Eames, said the incident mentioned by Leanne was not an isolated one and the problem of speeding motorists had been plaguing the area for years. He said: “For decades this has been an issue for residents, we can install all the calming measures possible it will not stop them, it will just make it more difficult for all responsible road users.
“Only a police presence and seizure of bikes will have an effect, which would be immediate and solve the problem. It’s a sad reflection on all our representatives, that unless someone is killed or maimed nothing that will make a difference will be done, something we’ve already sadly seen happen in Swansea city centre.”
Mumbles resident Jodie Evans said bikers were also speeding along with motorists. She added: “It’s not only cars, it’s the motorbikes going down Mumbles Road on a back wheel at over 100mph.” Research shows that three out of every four motoring offences involves drivers flouting the speed limit - you can read more about that here.
Inspector Martin added: “We have not received many reports of boy racers travelling through Mumbles, however, I am aware of the negative impact this can cause residents and other road users. Those who engage in these activities may regard them as fun, but driving on public roads brings with it certain responsibilities; to the driver and any passengers; to their family and friends; and to the local community of Mumbles. These responsibilities should not be taken lightly.
“We will continue to work with residents in the area to address any issues, but I would encourage anyone who notices any dangerous driving, or any type of anti-social behaviour linked to this, to note down the registration number of the offending vehicle and contact us directly.” South Wales Police can be contacted by going to https://bit.ly/SWPReportOnline or by sending a private message on Facebook/Twitter and email SWP101@south-wales.police.uk or by phoning 101.
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