CCTV powers for mandatory cycle lanes

Cycling

Local authorities in England are being given new powers to use CCTV cameras to enforce against drivers who park or load illegally in mandatory cycle lanes. 

The new powers will come into force on 22 June, allowing councils with civil parking enforcement powers to use CCTV and issue penalty change notices. 

The announcement represents a shift in Government thinking from the days of communities and local government secretary Eric Pickles who introduced tight restrictions on what councils could use CCTV camera enforcement for.  

Announcing the policy change this week, cycling minister Chris Heaton-Harris said: “Giving local authorities more powers to stop cycle lanes from becoming blocked will make it safer for cyclists.”

The new powers will not apply to moving traffic offences such as driving in a cycle lane. That is covered by separate legislation.