New law lets police instantly confiscate vehicles used antisocially

A revision to the Crime & Policing Act 2026 revokes the old requirement that a vehicle be caught twice within a year before it could be taken. Now, any driver seen using a vehicle antisocially, or any vehicle reported with supporting evidence, can be seized instantly, and the owner is responsible for all associated fees. Police in Durham highlighted the shift, noting that the previous legislation has been fully repealed.

Supporters argue the measure will curb reckless parking and dangerous driving, especially in pedestrian zones. Critics, however, raise concerns about the potential for false or malicious reports to trigger seizures. The policy is already being applied, as illustrated by a recent incident in Darlington town centre.