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.

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.