Concern over unlicensed vehicles on county roads

By Mike Renzella

The Haldimand Press

CALEDONIA—Local resident Michael Henderson has some concerns about road safety. He has noticed that more and more people are driving unlicensed off-road vehicles, including ATVs and dirt bikes, on County roads.

“If you’re driving on the road, you need to have a plate,” explains Henderson. “You don’t know when a young kid might be playing and could run out on the road.”

Henderson believes people, largely young adults, are using Orkney Street West and Morrison Drive as shortcuts to get their motorized vehicles down to the CN train tracks, where they like to ride. “I am afraid that an ATV, especially with a young rider, may get stuck on a track,” explains Henderson. “This could cause a major issue if a train comes along.”

Furthermore, he states that although there are back pathways that lead to the same spot, more and more people are choosing the road for its’ quickness and convenience.

Dan Lawrence, Ward 3 Councillor for Caledonia, has spoken with Henderson and agrees that this is an issue which requires more attention from the County.