Parents are being warned to think twice before buying electronic scooters for Christmas at the risk of falling foul of the law. While an e-scooter may seem a tempting present to buy loved ones this festive season, Dyfed-Powys Police are urging parents to consider the potential risks and legal implications, before they fork out hundreds of pounds on what could be a wasted gift. In the UK, privately owned e-scooters are only legal to use on private land with the landowner’s permission. While it is not illegal to buy e-scooters, is an offence to ride them on public roads, pavements, parks and cycle paths Parents could be liable to prosecution if their child is found to be breaking the law. As they are classified as Personal Light Electric Vehicles (PLEV’s), riders could be prosecuted for numerous offences, with consequences including a £300 fine, six penalty points on their driving licence, and the risk of having the e-scooter seized. Additionally, any driver who has passed their driving test in the last two years and is caught using an e-scooter illegally, could be disqualified from driving and have to retake both the theory and practical driving test Sergeant Dave Mallin, of Dyfed-Powys Police, said: “We understand that e-scooters may seem like a fun and exciting gift idea, but it’s important to understand the rules and risks that come with them. “Privately owned e-scooters are illegal to use on public roads, pavements or cycle paths. Their speed and silence can pose a significant danger to other road users and pedestrian safety, especially vulnerable pedestrians. “Many people are unaware of the restrictions on e-scooters and while retailers may be happy to sell one to you, it could be seized the moment you attempt to use it in a public place.” E-scooter riders also need to be over 16 and hold a full or provisional car/motorbike/moped licence. While rental e-scooter schemes operate under strict conditions in trial area in some parts of the UK, these schemes are currently not running in the Dyfed-Powys area. Sgt Mallin added: “Dyfed-Powys Police operates a zero-tolerance approach to e-scooters and we would urge parents to think twice about buying e-scooters as presents this Christmas and consider a more safe and appropriate gift.” For more information about e-scooters click here Advice on e-scooter usage | Dyfed-Powys Police

Carmarthenshire County Council has unveiled its new Tree and Woodland Strategy 2024-2029, outlining a significant commitment to increase tree and woodland cover on Council land to 17% by 2050. This ambitious target is in line with recommendations from various environmental bodies, including the UK Climate Change Panel, aimed at mitigating climate change and enhancing biodiversity.

The new strategy outlines a comprehensive approach to sustainable management of trees and woodlands, with the goal of addressing the climate and nature emergencies while improving the local environment for communities and wildlife. Over the next five years, the Council will work towards a more modest but important target as part of its wider environmental goals.

The strategy highlights the vital role that trees and woodlands play in combating climate change, reducing carbon emissions, and improving air quality. By enhancing local biodiversity and acting as natural flood defences, woodlands contribute to the resilience of communities and ecosystems in Carmarthenshire.

One of the key focuses of the strategy is the integration of tree planting with the Council’s Green and Blue Infrastructure initiatives. This aligns with the principles set out by the Wellbeing of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015, the Environment Act (Wales) 2016, and Planning Policy Wales, and underscores the importance of sustainable environmental practices.

Carmarthenshire County Council is already leading several successful tree planting schemes, including recently created community woodlands in Ffairfach and Llandybie  and further tree planting projects planned for this winter in Bynea and Llanarthne, with significant progress being made in increasing tree cover. Management of existing woodlands to enhance biodiversity has also been carried including coppicing in Ynys Dawela and replacing windblown conifers with native broadleaves trees at Llyn Llech Owain. These efforts not only support biodiversity but also encourage community involvement, ensuring that local residents can directly contribute to the positive environmental impact.

In addition to these ongoing schemes, the Council plans to plant at least 9.5 hectares of new woodland each year, helping to address climate change and the ongoing challenges posed by diseases such as Ash Dieback. Through public health collaborations and school partnerships, the strategy also aims to improve air quality in urban areas by planting trees where they can have the most immediate benefit.

The Tree and Woodland Strategy 2024-2029 is not just a vision for the future but a detailed, actionable plan. The strategy includes clear Action Tables, assigning responsibilities for managing existing trees and woodlands, with ongoing safety surveys and best practice training. An Officer Delivery Group will monitor the strategy’s progress, ensuring that all targets are met and the actions are integrated into the Council’s broader business plans.

Cllr. Aled Vaughan Owen, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Decarbonisation and Sustainability said:

Our commitment to increasing tree cover and managing our woodlands sustainably is a direct response to the climate and nature emergencies we face. By working together with communities and local stakeholders, we can build a greener, more resilient Carmarthenshire for future generations.”

For further information and sector-specific guidance on enhancing biodiversity in Carmarthenshire, including links to resources such as Coed Cymru and Local Places for Nature, as well as helpful support materials and contact details, visit our Biodiversity webpage.