A High Court injunction banning street racing across much of the Black Country has been extended for a further year, reinforcing efforts to curb dangerous driving and protect local communities. The order will remain in force across Wolverhampton, Sandwell and Walsall until at least 1 March 2027, following a review hearing on Thursday. However, Dudley has successfully applied to be removed from the injunction, opting instead to tackle the issue through Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs).
The injunction prohibits individuals from participating in street racing in any capacity — whether as a driver, rider, passenger, organiser or even spectator. It also bans the promotion or facilitation of such gatherings. Under its terms, it is a criminal offence to take part as a driver or passenger in a gathering of two or more vehicles where racing, stunts or other dangerous or obstructive driving takes place.
The original temporary ban was introduced in December 2022 after the tragic deaths of two teenagers, Liberty Charris, 16, and Ben Corfield, 19, who were killed in Oldbury when a car crashed into them during a racing incident. Their deaths galvanised police and local authorities to seek stronger, longer-term measures, leading to the High Court making the injunction permanent.
At the latest review, PC Mark Campbell of West Midlands Police presented data showing a significant reduction in street racing activity between April and November 2025. The figures demonstrated what he described as a “massive decrease” in the number of vehicles involved in illegal racing events, evidence that authorities argue highlights the order’s effectiveness.
In written submissions, Pardip Nagra, Wolverhampton’s anti-social behaviour team leader, maintained that street racing remains a “very real issue” within the Black Country and stressed that retaining the full injunction would continue to reassure the public and save lives.
Those found breaching the injunction risk being held in contempt of court, which carries penalties including imprisonment, fines, seizure of assets and liability for legal costs. Councillor Obaida Ahmed of City of Wolverhampton Council described the injunction as a “vital deterrent,” stating that street racing had blighted communities for too long and that the court’s decision would help maintain public safety across the region.
