West Midlands authorities secure final injunctions against car cruising

A High Court judge has granted local authorities in the West Midlands full and final injunctions banning ‘street racing’, also known as ‘street racing’.

One injunction was obtained by the ‘Black Country’ boroughs of Wolverhampton, Dudley, Sandwell and Walsall, covering the whole of their areas, while the other was secured by Birmingham City Council.

At a hearing at the High Court in Birmingham earlier this week (27 February, 2024), Mr Justice Julian Knowles said: "Car cruising is a euphemism; it's organised dangerous driving and there have sadly been injuries and fatalities."

Both injunctions will be in force for three years, until 27 February 2027. The full injunctions also cover organisers and spectators.

The ‘Black Country’ application was led by the City of Wolverhampton Council on behalf of Dudley Council, Sandwell Council and Walsall Council, and supported by West Midlands Police.

Cllr Jasbir Jaspal, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, said: "We are delighted that the High Court has seen fit to grant this full and final injunction which will help us continue to tackle the menace of street racing in the Black Country.

"The wealth of evidence presented to the court makes it clear the impact this anti-social, irresponsible and highly dangerous behaviour has had on people across our region, and the tragic incidents both locally and nationally which have caused serious injuries and even fatalities, and I would like to thank everyone who has shared their experiences so candidly."

Cllr Nicky Brennan, Birmingham’s Cabinet Member for Social Justice, Community Safety and Equalities, said: “Street cruising is dangerous as well as being a nuisance for law-abiding citizens – so I am glad to see the courts have granted a full injunction against those who take part these events.

“By working with our partners at the police on applying for this injunction, we have shown we understand and share the continued concerns raised by many residents, about this anti-social and life-threatening behaviour.

“Past court action shows that we won’t hesitate to ensure justice is served upon offenders, who have no excuse for their actions. There are plenty of lawful ways to exhibit and demonstrate their vehicles – but our roads are not the place for it.”