This consultation runs from Monday 4 September to Monday 16 October.
We are considering applying for new enforcement powers to improve safety and reduce congestion on the roads. These powers will allow us to enforce moving traffic contraventions such as driving through a No Entry sign, making banned turns, entering yellow box junctions when the exit is not clear, and driving where motor vehicles are prohibited, such as in pedestrianised town centres.
Currently, only the police can enforce these contraventions, but recent changes in legislation now allow local authorities outside of London to apply to do so also. As part of the application process, we must demonstrate where and how the powers would be used if approved.
We are interested in these powers because nationally there has been success using cameras to enforce these contraventions. By ensuring that the restrictions are clearly marked, and the presence of cameras is indicated by information signs, this has led to considerable reductions in contraventions and improvements to road safety.
We have identified two initial locations for camera enforcement, and these are:
- the junction of Cloverfield and the A47 Normandy Way, Hinckley.
- the junction of Cornfield and the A47 Normandy Way, Hinckley.
About the locations
The junction of Cloverfield and the A47 Normandy Way, Hinckley
This junction carries vehicles into and out of the busy A47 Normandy Way. Due to the volume of traffic using the A47 Normandy Way, and for road safety reasons, this junction has a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) that prohibits right turn manoeuvres.
The junction is clearly marked with a Turn Left road marking and accompanying left arrow, and a No Right Turn sign is displayed on the approach to the junction. The junction has also been engineered in a way that makes right turns an unnatural manoeuvre. Despite this, our evidence shows that many vehicles turn right, causing congestion to the network and road safety implications.
The junction of Cornfield and the A47 Normandy Way, Hinckley
This junction carries vehicles into and out of the busy A47 Normandy Way. Due to the volume of traffic using the A47 Normandy Way, and for road safety reasons, this junction has a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) that prohibits right turn manoeuvres.
The junction is clearly marked with a Turn Left road marking and accompanying left arrow, and a No Right Turn sign is displayed on the approach to the junction. The junction has also been engineered in a way that makes right turns an unnatural manoeuvre. Despite this, our evidence shows that many vehicles turn right, causing congestion to the network and road safety implications.
Frequently asked questions
Why are we considering applying for these powers?
We are considering applying for these powers because we recognise that despite clear signage, some restrictions on the road network are not being followed resulting in safety concerns and congestion. Evidence suggests that the use of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras by local authorities can be very effective in improving compliance, which would in turn improve safety and reduce congestion.
How were the sites chosen?
We selected sites based on a measured and consistent approach to enforcement, focusing on locations where there is a demonstrable need. The two sites chosen for this consultation were selected because they experience a high level of contraventions, creating congestion and road safety implications. Improved enforcement using visible cameras could help address these issues.
Will you choose other sites in future?
If the two chosen sites show positive results, then further sites could be considered for enforcement in the future subject to a demonstrable evidenced need.
How much are the fines?
For the first six months after commencement, warning notices will be issued for first-time contraventions. After six months (or within six months if a warning notice has already been issued) Penalty Charge Notices for moving traffic contraventions will be issued at £70, with a 50% discount offered for payment within the first 14 days.
What will you do with the income generated by fines?
Any income will pay for the operational costs of the cameras and administration. If there is a surplus after these costs are met, we will use funds for highway improvement projects that align with strict Government guidance.
Have your say
To provide feedback on the potential enforcement of moving traffic contraventions at the identified locations, please submit any comments by email to: TMA6project@leics.gov.uk by Monday 16 October 2023.
If you have any questions, please contact TMA6project@leics.gov.uk and include the reference: Moving Traffic Enforcement.
If you require the consultation material in an alternative format or language, please email TMA6project@leics.gov.uk or call the County Council at 0116 305 001.
What happens next?
All responses will be acknowledged and reported to the Lead Member for Highways, Transportation and Flooding before a decision is made on applying for the powers from the Department for Transport.
If the application is successful and the powers are granted, we will announce the start date for enforcement and issue warning notices in compliance with the legislation.