New measures to improve road safety and bus services set to be introduced

Local authorities outside of London have been invited to apply to the Department for Transport (DfT) for new powers to enforce ‘moving traffic offences’. This helps the police to focus on other priorities.

In September 2022 Cabinet approved a proposal to apply for powers to enforce moving traffic offences, following the outcome of a consultation process. This summer the government gave its approval.

Enforcement of traffic rules at three locations will help to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow and road safety. This will encourage more people to take up walking or cycling and encourage greater use of public transport.

The enforcement of three bus lanes is set to go live on 4 December 2023 and warning notices will be on display from 20 November:

·    B4063 Gloucester Road inbound bus lane Arle Court, Cheltenham

·    A40 inbound Benhall, Cheltenham

·    Barley Road, Prestbury

Enforcement of other traffic offences is due to follow in January 2024. The offences include stopping in a yellow box junction, banned turns, going the wrong way in a one-way street or accessing a street where there is a prohibition of driving in place.

Traffic surveys were carried out at 14 sites around the county between November 2021 and March 2022. At nearly all of the locations people have been injured in crashes. Enforcing traffic regulations will reduce the risk of collisions and improve road safety for all road users and pedestrians, as well as improve the efficiency of public transport services.

Cllr Dave Norman, cabinet member for road safety, said: “The majority of road users safely adhere to the rules of the road, however a small number do not, which poses a risk to everyone.

“We have identified several locations where ANPR cameras would help to prevent collisions, so they can act as a deterrent to people who are tempted to breach the rules. This will help to improve road safety and also encourage walking and cycling.”