E-scooters are a road ‘menace’

A POLICE chief has called for the rollout of e-scooters to be halted after branding them a “menace”.

The machines – which can reach speeds of up to 30mph – are being trialled on roads and cycle lanes in about 50 locations.

But concerns have been raised following injuries, as well as their illegal use by children.

More than 800 incidents have been reported to councils and 122 people have been banned from using them.

Matthew Scott, Kent’s police and crime commissioner, said: “Inconsiderate riders are a menace on roads and pavements, ignoring the law and causing danger for other road users.

“We urgently need decisive action now as we’re in danger of losing control and placing more burdens on policing.”

He said there should be no more rollouts until more work was done on safety with retailers, manufacturers and the public.