Trafford Council launches camera crackdown on box junction offenders
Trafford Council is ramping up enforcement measures to tackle congestion and improve air quality by targeting drivers who block key junctions and red routes.
Cameras have been installed at two major yellow box junctions to catch motorists who stop and obstruct traffic. A mobile camera van will also patrol red routes, penalising drivers who ignore restrictions and cause hold-ups.
The new cameras are now in place at White City roundabout in Stretford and on the A56 near junction seven of the M60. The White City enforcement goes live on Sunday, with the A56 site expected to follow in April.
Motorists caught in these zones will face a fixed penalty notice of £70. Those who pay within 21 days will see the charge reduced to £35, but failure to pay within 28 days will result in an increased fine of £105.
Trafford Council has introduced the scheme after receiving new enforcement powers from the Secretary of State for Transport. The locations were selected following traffic surveys and public consultation. Further camera enforcement could be rolled out to other problem areas in the borough.
Cllr Stephen Adshead, Executive Member for Highways, Environmental and Traded Services, said: “We’ve all been in the situation where we are just trying to get home to our family and we’ve been delayed by drivers who think the rules don’t apply to them.
“Now we have cameras in place that will fine them and make them think about changing the way they drive.
“As well as improving congestion, the scheme will also improve the air quality and make it easier for people walking, wheeling or cycling.”
Cllr Adshead added: “It’s about reducing congestion and reducing journey times. That is why we have installed warning signs ahead of the box junctions, and anyone caught by a box junction camera in the first six months will only be sent a letter, rather than a fine. We believe that is fair.”
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