Councils could become road traffic enforcers
TOWN halls in Greater Manchester could be among the first English authorities outside London to enforce certain traffic offences – but only if the government relaxes its current stance on the regulations.
The move would see drivers coughing up fines to the councils rather than the police if they drive the wrong way up a one way street or stop in yellow box areas.
Combined authority bosses hope to persuade the government to devolve the responsibility to enforce ‘moving traffic offences’ – powers already in force in London.
Despite the government saying it currently has ‘no plans’ to extend the powers to town halls outside of the capital, GMCA has included the proposal in its Made to Move cycling and walking blueprint.
Bosses say the enforcement powers would help crack down on ‘inconsiderate behaviour’ on the region’s road network.
However, a leading motoring organisation has voiced concerns that it could be used to ‘milk confused drivers for cash’ to boost depleted council coffers.