By Jamie Shapiro, Local Democracy Reporter
A plan for extra traffic powers which will allow Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras across Southampton has been approved by the city council’s cabinet, and the first could appear in the summer – provided the Department for Transport agrees.
The when ANPR cameras recognise number plates, fines are then issued to rule-breaking motorists - who would have previously remained uncaught.
They could be used to enforce signage to stop drivers driving through prohibited areas, such as and pedestrian zones.
Up until now, only the police have been able to issue fines from their own enforcement measures – but now Southampton City Council is among those local authorities applying to hold enforcement powers themselves.
Cllr Eamonn Keogh, cabinet member for transport (Lab) said: “(It is) a system for everyone where our network makes our city more attractive and safer.”
He spoke of the importance of the camera installations around school street closures, saying “safety there will be welcomed”.
Now the council must apply to the Department for Transport and await its approval – and then the rollout of the first 25 cameras will commence
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