Untaxed cars will be crushed

OWNERS of untaxed vehicles in Clacton are being warned they risk having them removed and crushed in a new police initiative.

So far, 21 vehicles have been taken in the operation launched on Wednesday involving Essex Police, Essex Trading Standards and the

Driver Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) to rid the town of abandoned cars and vans, including ones parked in the road and offered for sale.

They have been taken to a pound and are due to be crushed if the owners do not claim them and pay a fee within seven days.

The scheme is part of the recently reformed east Clacton problem-solving team, set up by Essex Police to address community issues.

Sgt John Ross said: "We want to send a message of reassurance to members of the public who have been complaining about the problem of these untaxed cars and also warn potential buyers that untaxed cars for sale on the street may be dangerous."

Of the 21 vehicles seized to date, four have been found to be unroadworthy. Some of the vehicles had notices advertising them for sale.

A further 36 vehicles have been identified as untaxed and will be taken to the pound as soon as resources are available to deal with their removal.

In addition, fixed penalty notices have been issued as a result of irregularities identified on 11 other vehicles. Another 24 vehicles have been identified as candidates for fixed penalty notices.

If the owners come forward, they will have to pay a £120 refundable deposit while the legality of the vehicle is being checked and a non-refundable £80 for the first day, rising to £220 for six days, while the vehicle is impounded.

If it is found to be taxed, insured and roadworthy, it will be returned and the £120 fee refunded. The daily storage charge will not be refunded.

Owners who reclaim untaxed or dangerous vehicles also run the risk of prosecution.

The operation runs over three days until todayand is likely to be repeated elsewhere in the Tendring Police Division.