NEW cameras to catch drivers flouting restrictions at "problem" spots in Halesowen, Kingswinford and Netherton could be installed. 

Dudley Council wants to put cameras, which can automatically send out fines at a no entry at Windsor Road/Richmond Street in Halesowen and on banned right turns on Wolverhampton Road/Holbeache Lane in Kingswinford and on Halesowen Road/Northfield Road in Netherton. 

It said it is planning to apply for new powers from the government in a bid to improve road safety and tackle congestion.

Residents are being asked for their views on proposals and to suggest other possible locations where restrictions are needed.

Halesowen News: The no-right turn on Wolverhampton Road/Holbeache Lane in Kingswinford could get an enforcement cameraThe no-right turn on Wolverhampton Road/Holbeache Lane in Kingswinford could get an enforcement camera (Image: Google)

Enforcement would be via Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) camera technology, with Penalty Charge Notices of £70, reduced to £35 if paid within 21 days.

During the first six months warning notices will be issued for a first offence, instead of a Penalty Charge Notice.

Councillor Damian Corfield, cabinet member for highways and environment, said: "These sites have been chosen as initial possible locations for enforcement due to issues with drivers breaking the law there.

"Other locations will be considered in the future.

"By taking on enforcement powers we hope to change drivers’ behaviour, improve road safety and keep traffic moving, supporting our climate commitment to reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality.

"We want to hear from as many people as possible about introducing enforcement in the borough."

Halesowen News: The no-right turn on Halesowen Road/Northfield Road in NethertonThe no-right turn on Halesowen Road/Northfield Road in Netherton (Image: Google)

Subject to the outcome of the consultation, an application will be made to the Department for Transport to seek powers to enforce moving traffic offences in the borough, with the aim to begin implementing them in autumn 2024.

 

If granted, it will allow the council to introduce targeted camera enforcement at problem locations for traffic offences such as stopping in a yellow box junction, where not permitted to, making banned right or left turns or illegal U-turns, ignoring no-entry restrictions or going the wrong way in a one-way street.

Full details on the proposals and a link to the online survey are available on the council’s website at www.dudley.gov.uk/movingtrafficoffences.

The consultation runs until Sept 10.