CONCERNS are growing over dangerous racing and antisocial driving around Chew Valley Lake, with residents and councillors calling for stronger police action.

Residents have reported that high-speed motorbikes and cars are meeting daily on the lake road, posing serious risks for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.

Chew Valley councillors have expressed deep concern about the issue and are pressing for stronger enforcement measures.

Councillor Dave Harding said: “As Chew Valley ward councillors, we are deeply concerned about the impact of speeding and anti-social behaviour. We have consistently pressed for more visible active policing and enforcement since we were elected.

“This included bringing the Police and Crime Commissioner and the local community policing team together in Chew Stoke to discuss the problems first hand. We also regularly engage with parish councils, the community beat sergeant and B&NES Highways’ road safety team.”

Councillors are also calling on the district council and police to consider a ‘Dispersal Order’, which would give authorities greater powers to break up groups attending these high-speed meets.

They encourage residents to report any incidents via formal channels, such as calling 101, to help build the evidence needed for such measures.

Police and councillors note that closures at nearby Cheddar Gorge on weekends may be contributing to more riders and drivers using the Chew Valley Lake roads, and the police have called an emergency meeting to address the situation on September 3.

One resident who wished to remain anonymous said: “I have lived in the Chew Valley for 15 years, and this summer it has become a paradise for modified cars and bikes, which have totally taken it over with their dangerous driving, wheelies, burn-outs, undertaking, and swerving, making it terrifying for other road users and wildlife alike. The road between Chew Stoke and West Harptree has become a race track.”