Buckinghamshire Council is one of several English local authorities to have been given power to enforce moving traffic offences (MTOs) to improve road safety.
MTOs are actions taken by drivers that are in direct violation of the rules of the road.
Examples include making banned left and right turns, illegal U-turns and driving in bus, cycle or taxi lanes.
Previously, outside of London, the power to enforce MTOs was limited to the police.
However, following several changes to the law, local authorities can now apply for the power to enforce these offences.
Buckinghamshire Council opened a public consultation before submitting its application, which was recently announced as successful.
The new powers will apply to areas with existing restrictions and the council is reportedly procuring ANPR cameras for 14 chosen locations across the county, which are expected to be ready by December.
Steven Broadbent, cabinet member for transport, Buckinghamshire Council, said: “The granting of these new powers is great news for residents and all road users in Bucks.
“MTOs are put in place where there is a need to enforce the rules of the road to motorists. They are designed to keep traffic moving and keep both other motorists and pedestrians safer.
“It’s important for people to realise, it’s not about trying to catch people out on purpose and raising money for council coffers, it’s about keeping everyone safe and reinforcing the rules of the road.
“Enforcing MTOs has many additional benefits for our environment, which we are also keen to achieve in line with our climate change strategy.
“Better flowing traffic leads to less air pollution and safer roads can encourage people to switch to more sustainable forms of transport including cycling or using public transport over their own car which has multiple benefits for everyone.”
For the first six months, offending motorists will receive a warning letter for any first-time offences. If they re-offend, they will be given a fixed penalty charge notice (PCN).
After the initial six months, all those found in violation of the restrictions will be issued a PCN.
Funds generated from the PCNs will reportedly be ring-fenced for specific use, including highway repairs, public transport services and sustainability measures.
The ANPR cameras will be mobile, meaning they can be moved once an area has been seen to abide by the restrictions.
Signage will be installed ahead of the cameras to give motorists’ sufficient notice of the change.
