A Swindon councillor’s birding was ruined by motorbikes at her local nature spot – sparking concerns for people and wildlife.
Leanne Stevenson, who sits on Haydon Wick Parish Council, said that riders of loud motorcycles on Seven Fields Nature Reserve is causing daily disruption.
The councillor told of how, while with her family and attempting to take part in the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch at the weekend, birdsong was “repeatedly drowned out”.
Ms Stevenson, who is also the Seven Fields Conservation Liaison, said that residents have reported numerous incidents involving motorbikes – and some were left distressed.
“A resident reported a near-miss incident close to the main bridge”, she added.
“Others described frightened dogs, daily disruption, and verbal abuse when attempting to challenge the riders.”
Continuing, Ms Stevenson said: “What should be a calm, therapeutic green space was instead dominated by noise and intimidation.
“In response, I contacted 101 and officers were dispatched to the area. I spoke with them at length, and they confirmed similar concerns.
“Following my previous report, Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) have since patrolled the area.
“Residents are encouraged to continue reporting incidents so patterns of behaviour can be logged and evidence built to inform any future action if required. It is important to clarify what is being affected.”
Ms Stevenson said that Seven Fields is a managed meadow habitat, not amenity grassland – with its destruction harming biodiversity.
“Species-rich meadows function through natural self-seeding, with much of their biodiversity held within a dormant seed bank in the soil.
“Repeated motorcycle use churns and compacts the ground, damaging this seed bank and disrupting soil structure. Once compromised, this system cannot be restored by simple reseeding.
“Recovery is slow, resource-intensive, and may never fully return the site to its original ecological condition. The need for children and young people to have space for recreation is recognised.
“Seven Fields has designated non-motorised cycle routes only, and motorised riding is not permitted within the nature reserve. Options are being explored for appropriate recreational riding elsewhere.
“Residents are encouraged to report incidents rather than challenge behaviour directly. Reports of intimidation indicate that direct challenges can escalate situations and place residents at risk.
“Incidents should be reported via 101, allowing concerns to be logged and addressed through appropriate channels.
“Biodiversity monitoring and habitat management are set out within the Seven Fields Management Plan.
“I will be seeking updated condition assessments to establish whether species presence and habitat quality have changed since its adoption, so that future decisions are informed by current evidence. Seven Fields is a shared public space.
“Its continued use depends on respect for safety, the environment, and one another.”
Incidents can be reported to Wiltshire Police by calling 101 or using an online reporting form. In an emergency, and if a crime is in progress, call 999.
