Off-road drivers ‘butchering’ moorland

RUTS gouged into the moor by inconsiderate bikers and off-roaders

A PLAGUE of vehicles is turning Crompton Moor into a “quagmire”, according to its protection group.

Friends of Crompton Moor raised concerns after an increasing number of motorbikes and off-road vehicles began cutting across the moor, churning up pathways and disturbing wildlife.

Crompton Moor has been designated a Grade A site of biological importance and forms an important green space for the local community, popular with walkers, ramblers, bird watchers and cyclists.

Group secretary Marian Herod now fears for the future of the moor: “Vehicles are continually butchering the paths and destroying the drainage, which turns it into a quagmire. Off-road vehicles churn up soil, leading to ruts, damaged root systems, compacted soil and erosion.

“In addition to damaging plants, off-road vehicles can spread seeds as they churn up soil and vegetation, spreading weeds.

“As a natural habitat is churned up, eroded or invaded by weeds, the wildlife that depends on it suffers.

“The engine noise can also frighten animals and can seriously disrupt feeding and breeding.”

Insp Jim Troisi, of Oldham police, said: “Police have the power to seize vehicles being driven anti-socially. We understand the impact on the residents, the land and the wildlife. We would encourage people to report any incidents to us.”