The High Court has granted a full and final injunction banning 'street racing', also known as 'car cruising', in the Black Country.
It prohibits people from participating, as a driver, a rider or a passenger, in a gathering of two or more people at which some of those present engage in motor racing or motor stunts or other dangerous or obstructive driving.
The injunction, which was granted on 27 February 2024, also covers organisers and spectators, prohibiting people from promoting, organising or publicising gatherings, or from participating in a gathering as a spectator with the intention or expectation that some of those present will engage in street racing.
The injunction covers the whole of the boroughs of Wolverhampton, Dudley, Sandwell and Walsall and anyone breaching it will be in contempt of court and could face penalties including imprisonment, a fine, or an order to have their assets seized.
The 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.
The injunction and power of arrest will remain in force for a period of at least three years, and will be subject to an annual review, with the next hearing scheduled to take place on 26 February 2025 at 10.30am at the High Court of Justice, King’s Bench Division, Birmingham District Registry at Birmingham Civil and Family Justice Centre, The Priory Courts, 33 Bull Street, Birmingham, B4 6DS.
Defendants who wish to file any evidence in respect of the review hearing must do so by 7 February 2025.
For more information about the injunction, please visit the street racing injunction pages of the applicants:
- Sandwell street racing webpage
- Dudley street racing webpage
- Walsall street racing webpage
- Wolverhampton street racing webpage
Incidents of street racing in Sandwell should be reported online to the council or to West Midlands Police on 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.
To contact the claimants, write to: FAO: Black Country Car Cruise, Legal Services, City of Wolverhampton Council, Civic Centre, St Peter's Square, Wolverhampton WV1 1RG. Alternatively, email litigation@wolverhampton.gov.uk or call 01902 556556.