Turnhout Tightens Fair Controls: Bikes and Scooters May Be Confiscated

The city of Turnhout is set to enforce stricter regulations at its annual fair, with police conducting additional checks on cyclists and scooter riders. Traffic signs have been placed at the entrances to the Grote Markt and Zegeplein, warning that bicycles or scooters used in violation of the rules can be administratively confiscated.

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Turnhout Kermis is a beautiful tradition and it is a celebration for young and old in our city every year. We want it to feel safe for everyone, and that is why we are taking extra measures.

Mayor Hannes Anaf explained that Turnhout Fair is a cherished tradition, and the city wants to ensure it remains a safe experience for everyone. "We have noticed problems in recent years caused by people riding bicycles, fatbikes, or scooters through the fair at high speeds," Anaf stated. "Therefore, we have installed additional signage to make it clear that this is prohibited."

While cycling and scootering on the Grote Markt and Zegeplein during the fair was already forbidden in previous years, the new measures include increased enforcement. "Now, there will also be extra checks, and the vehicles can indeed be administratively confiscated. People are therefore warned," Anaf added.

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We noticed problems in recent years caused by people riding bicycles, fatbikes, or scooters through the fair at high speeds. Therefore, we have installed additional signage to make it clear that this is prohibited.

These heightened controls aim to address safety concerns arising from the movement of personal transport devices through crowded fairgrounds, ensuring a more secure environment for all attendees.

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Now, there will also be extra checks, and the vehicles can indeed be administratively confiscated. People are therefore warned.