Have your say on plans to stop moving traffic offences
Date Added: 23/06/2022
Residents are being asked to comment on potential new powers to address moving traffic offences across the whole of Central Bedfordshire. The first pilot scheme being put forward for consideration covers nine locations across the area.
We've launched the consultation on proposals which could see automated number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras help deter various traffic offences near schools and other identified locations. This aims to improve road safety, support public transport, ease congestion, enhance air quality and increase the lifespan of the roads.
The pilot scheme will be evaluated and if successful could see other locations considered in the future. The powers will support local communities and residents by making them safer and better places.
The Department for Transport recently changed legislation to enable councils to apply for powers used previously only by the police. The legislation can only be used where other methods of deterrent have been unsuccessful in solving the problem, and further measures are still required. The law states that only ANPR cameras can be used for enforcement of moving traffic offences. Warning notices would be issued for first-time offences for a period of six months following the ‘go live’ date.
We're looking to take advantage of the opportunity and want people to have their say on the plans after our Executive agreed consultation should go ahead.
A moving traffic offence includes driving through a 'no entry' sign, turning left or right when instructed not to do so, entering yellow box junctions when the exit is not clear, driving where and when motor vehicles are prohibited and parking on yellow zig zag markings.
Locations
The sites were chosen after reviewing traffic offence intelligence and have been prioritised based on road safety concerns.
The locations and road sign or marking being ignored:
• Barton le Clay – Barton Road and Bedford Road junction – no right turn
• Biggleswade - Sun Street – no entry and one way only
• Brogborough – Bedford Road – no goods vehicles over 7.5 tonnes
• Cranfield – Lodge Road – no left turn
• Houghton Regis – Tithe Farm Primary School – school keep clear yellow zig zags
• Dunstable – one way route near Sainsburys – yellow box junction
• Leighton Buzzard – Clipstone Brook Lower School – school keep clear yellow zig zags
• Leighton Buzzard – High Street – pedestrian zone traffic restrictions
• Silsoe – Barton Road / High Street – no goods vehicles over 7.5 tonnes
The consultation runs until 4 August 2022 with full information and a feedback form available on our website.
The powers would come into effect in 2023 subject to consultation, further investigation on the suitability of the sites and appropriate government approval.
Have your say