MOTORBIKES are not welcome in the West Field. That was the message spelled out at the February meeting of Merkinch Community Council when Community Beat Officer Alistair Stewart asked for the official line.

He said there had been a request for motorbikes to be allowed to make use of the field and he wanted to know the local policy.

Members said there was a total ban on the use of motorbikes in what was supposed to be a public area. “The Field is for everybody and bikes are dangerous to others, besides being noisy,” said one member. Another agreed they were a danger to children.

“If you go along the sea wall you need permission from the Canal authorities.

To use other areas would need Housing department permission, which the bikers don’t have – it would be an accident waiting to happen.

Chairman Ali Maclean said the policy of the old council had been to say “No” to motor bikes and horses.

“And if you allow one, you would get a hundred,” he added.