Accessibility tools
Powered by 
Translate
Use the boxes below to change the website colours.
Visit disclaimer page for more information about the accessibility tool.
Off road vehicle causes damage at Eglinton Country Park
North Ayrshire Council’s Ranger Service and country park staff have shared their disappointment following the discovery of significant damage caused by illegal, off-road vehicle usage at Eglinton Country Park.
Taking place during the Easter weekend, the park's busiest weekend of the year for families to visit, several locations have been affected with water pooling and tyre marks now prominent in key areas including the perimeter lawn of Eglinton Castle and land adjacent to the river.
The damage was sustained by a suspected off-road vehicle over the Easter weekend.
Quote: While we are encouraged by the hundreds of visitors we are lucky enough to welcome to Eglinton Country Park who respectfully make the most of our vibrant green spaces while leaving no trace, we are extremely disappointed to learn of the damage sustained to the park over the weekend. We presume that the damage is likely to have been caused by a rider on a quad bike, due to the vehicle tracks left behind. This behaviour is disrespectful, dangerous and illegal. It shows a blatant disregard for public safety and for the vibrancy of our green spaces and the delicate ecosystem of our local country park. Our Countryside Rangers are currently assessing the damage to the affected areas and how we can work towards restoring them.
Quote from: Rhonda Leith, Head of Service for Connected Communities
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "Around 4.40pm on Sunday, 4 April, 2026, we received a report of a vandalism at Eglinton Country Park. Enquiries are ongoing."
In Scotland, the law is clear - the only places where off-road vehicles can lawfully be ridden is on private land with the direct permission of the landowner or at an organised, supervised off-road centre.
Quad bikes should not be used in public parks, common land or on beaches as this is illegal and causes noise pollution and damage to public spaces. They also cannot be used on public roads, paths or cycle lanes.
Information regarding illegal vehicle use can be passed to Police Scotland officers through 101, 999 in an emergency, or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Published: 07 April 2026