Councils have been given the chance to apply for tough new powers to punish common mistakes
Councils across the West Midlands are set to be given tough new powers which could see spy cars unleashed onto the roads in some areas within weeks to hunt for drivers making common mistakes. Motorists will face fines for breaking road rules like waiting in yellow boxes and blocking traffic, making wrong turns and going the wrong way up one-way streets.
The Department of Transport (DfT) is handing powers over from police to local councils in the hope of improving enforcement of these infringements, which mostly go ignored because cops don't have the resources to spot them. Many local authorities have either already applied for the powers or confirmed their intention to do so in future.
They will argue it will keep traffic moving and improve safety but could leave themselves open to accusations of targeting drivers and using such schemes as cash cows. It's likely wardens will target known problem hotspots and could take to the roads in so-called spy cars.
Another option could be the installation of cameras at key locations, with full details of enforcement yet to be confirmed. Some councils are set to acquire the powers before others, meaning drivers in some areas will be targeted first.
Meanwhile, Birmingham City Council has already outlined the junctions where it initially intends to focus these new traffic powers. Enforcement could begin later this year although no official timescales have been confirmed.
Comentarios