Police clarify traffic control rules

POLICE in Scotland will no longer control traffic at pre-planned events where a legal traffic order has not been obtained.

Police Scotland has written to local authorities to advise that officers will no longer regulate traffic at events which have not been granted a Temporary Traffic Regulation Order.

This relates to events requiring road closures and traffic management, including religious parades and peaceful demonstrations.

Under current legislation, police officers have the power to regulate traffic while dealing with emergencies or where crime is being committed.

It does not enable of- ficers to regulate traffic for pre-planned events, responsibility for which rests with councils and, for trunk roads, the Scottish Government.

The force has confirmed its position in plans lodged with the Scottish Police Authority.

Power to grant a traffic order lies with the local roads authority through the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984.

Assistant Chief Constable Bernard Higgins said: ‘Local policing is at the heart of Police Scotland, as is our foTuesday cus of keeping people safe. However, existing legislation does not contain powers to enable police to regulate traffic for pre-planned events.

‘Police officers have previously assisted organisers of such events by closing off roads, controlling traffic and ensuring public safety on an informal basis but, crucially, without lawful authority.

‘We will continue to be fully supportive of future community events but must support and assist organisers within the confines of legislation.’

06_a30invgames12 Temporary Traffic Regulation Orders are already part of the routine for most big events such as Inveraray Games, but police will no longer control vehicles without one in place.