Hansard

I am definitely happy to consider that, although I would have to speak to Mr Fairlie about it. We are going to have an initial meeting; it was meant to be in December, but after trying to co-ordinate the diaries of all the members involved, Police Scotland and the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities, it will now be in January. I should also say that we are aware, too, of developments in England, as they might have a wider impact on any reserved matters, and we are ensuring that we are kept involved.

I know that Ben Macpherson has a constituency interest with regard to antisocial behaviour involving off-road vehicles, and he has contributed to many of the debates to highlight the importance of diversion and intervention. Claire Baker also highlighted the dangers of off-road vehicles when she talked about her constituent Shelagh Cooper, who lost her dog, and I know that Bob Doris’s constituent lost his life. Such antisocial behaviour can result in some very tragic circumstances.

I want to conclude on the high note with which David Torrance proposed this debate. The Kingdom Off Road Motorcycle Club has successfully helped to reduce off-road-related antisocial behaviour in Levenmouth by a really impressive 90 per cent, as has been confirmed by local police. It is also really welcome that overall antisocial behaviour in the area has reduced by almost 80 per cent over the period.

The club has achieved that through a remarkably simple approach—by providing a safe space, using private land, and all the associated support required. It is clear that we need to learn from that approach and all that it has achieved. Indeed, I understand that the additional funding that the club has secured will help it to create safe spaces for another 70 young people from Cowdenbeath, Glenrothes and Kirkcaldy.

On that note, I join all members in commending the club’s efforts, and those of similar community groups, in helping to address inequalities and in providing real opportunities and hope in our communities.