Blitz on bus lane drivers and bad school parking?
STOCKPORT drivers could be hit with a £60 fine if caught travelling in bus lanes or parking outside schools, according to a report.
The authority is taking action because it wants to crack down on vehicles clogging up bus lanes and causing hazards outside school gates.
The document, due to be discussed by the council’s community and housing committee this week, states the authority will use mobile and static CCTV equipment to catch the culprits.
“Ensuring safe parking practices outside schools is a high priority for parents – and the council is committed to improving road safety,” read the report.
“Bus priority measures have been introduced within the borough to help achieve easier and more consistent journey times. It is clear that in order to retain their effectiveness bus lanes must be enforced.
“In the past, enforcement has been undertaken by the police. This activity is no longer a policing priority and, as a result, the police are unable to commit resources to it.”
The council says drivers think they are unlikely to be prosecuted for driving in bus lanes and that a ‘culture of disregard’ has evolved.
The report continued: “Enforcement of inappropriate parking around schools and bus stops discourages poor driver behaviour, reducing potentially dangerous situations.
“There are numerous school ‘keep clear’ markings. However, this is an area of enforcement that leads to the greatest level of confrontation from parents.
The use of mobile CCTV, rather than foot patrols, to enforce parking near schools can be extremely effective.”
The report added: “The aim is not to catch drivers out but to change their driving habits.
“Another benefit of this style of enforcement is that it can reduce the possibility of confrontation where traffic officers may be put at risk.”
Rules state that if the fine is paid within 14 days 50pc discount would apply, however, if its not settled within 28 days it will rise to £90.
For further information or to read the full report visit democracy.stockport.gov. uk/documents.