Police in North Wales are preparing to take swift action against off-road vehicles that cause damage to protected natural areas or engage in anti-social behavior. Under new powers granted by the Crime and Policing Act 2026, officers can now seize such vehicles on the spot without warning. PC Eryl Lloyd, from North Wales Police’s rural crime team, emphasized the seriousness of the issue, warning offenders that they may face the consequences of their actions: "It's a long walk home." Both the police and Natural Resources Wales (NRW) have noted a recent rise in off-roading incidents and related disturbances. In August, three men—John Robinson, Michael Williams, and Joseph Hodgson—were found guilty of causing irreversible damage to the Berwyn Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), a protected area known for its unique ecological value. The men were part of a group of seven vehicles that traveled from Liverpool to the Berwyn range, damaging peat and bog habitats. Robinson and Williams were each fined over £2,000 and banned from driving for two months. Hodgson was ordered to pay £1,000 in compensation and was prohibited from entering the Berwyn SSSI for three years. PC Lloyd, who is currently seconded to NRW, reported a noticeable increase in off-roading incidents, which now include not only 4x4 vehicles and motorbikes but also e-bikes, which can cause similar environmental damage. He linked this rise to the influence of social media, which he said has encouraged people to share locations for off-road activities. Offenders have come from various parts of the UK, including the Midlands and London. Similar issues have been reported in Newborough Forest and Newborough Beach on Anglesey, where increased social media activity has coincided with a surge in wild camping and anti-social behavior, such as illegal fires and barbecues. Kirsty Roberts of NRW highlighted the severe damage caused to the peatlands of the Berwyn Range, noting that the removal of 40cm of peat equates to about 400 years of natural growth. She warned that without intervention, the loss of biodiversity could be irreversible. The damage also affects local wildlife, such as ground-nesting birds, which rely on these fragile habitats for survival. Roberts also pointed out an increase in other anti-social behaviors, including the use of barbecues and the dumping of waste on protected sites, which further threaten these sensitive areas. Lord Newborough of the Rhug Estate in Denbighshire, who owns the land damaged by the off-roaders, expressed concern over the increasing harm to important natural habitats. While parts of the estate are open to the public, he stressed the need to protect the mountain and its surroundings. He noted that habitat damage has become more frequent in recent years and expressed disappointment at the growing encroachment on natural areas.