Wiltshire Council applying for powers to prevent Harnham traffic offences
They want to use ANPR technology for enforcement, and need our views
Wiltshire Council's planning to apply for more powers to prevent so-called 'moving traffic offences' in areas including Harnham.
The authority's looking to use Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) for enforcement purposes, with six areas of the county identified as possible locations.
They include Hollows Close and Saxon Road in Harnham, which have had well documented issues with things like parking and ignoring regulations during school pick-up and drop-off times.
Moving traffic offences are currently only enforceable by the police in Wiltshire, as is the case in other Local Authorities outside London.
They include driving offences such as going the wrong way down a one-way street; driving through a No Entry sign; ignoring a weight limit; or turning left or right where it is not permitted.
If successful in their application, Wiltshire Council would be able to fine drivers directly for these kinds of offences.
Cllr Caroline Thomas, Cabinet Member for Transport, said:
“We are committed to improving road safety in Wiltshire, and that is why we’re applying for these new powers to tackle moving traffic offences such as ignoring weight limits or No Entry signs.
“Moving traffic offences put all road users at risk, with pedestrians – particularly those with additional access requirements or limited mobility – especially vulnerable to the dangers when drivers ignore the rules of the road. This is not a money-making exercise for us; it’s about putting road safety first and our calculations show the technology will cost us money, rather than generate income.
“We’ve identified an initial six sites, but we’d like to hear people’s views on them so that we can tap into local knowledge and opinion.
“We’re also asking for people to identify other sites with current moving traffic restrictions in place around Wiltshire which they think may be suitable for ANPR-based enforcement in the future.
“I’d urge all residents and businesses in these areas to take the survey and let us know their views as we seek to improve safety on Wiltshire’s roads.”
The Hollows Close order would see the prohibition of vehicles, except for permit holders, between 7.30am and 9.30am, as well as 2.00pm to 6.00pm Monday to Friday.
At Saxon Road, vehicles would be prohibited at all times Monday to Friday, except for permit holders.
The survey is now open, and available through the Wiltshire Council website. |newtab)
It'll stay open until 11.59pm on Wednesday 28th June.
To request a paper copy of the survey, call 01225 713497 or email highwaynetworkmanagement@wiltshire.gov.uk