Rotherham Council is installing automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras at five key locations to enforce moving traffic offences under new regulations.
According to the council, these cameras will help take action against drivers who put themselves and others at risk by driving through pedestrian zones or performing other illegal maneuvers. For years, motorists have disregarded restrictions at these sites, requiring police officers to be present to catch violators.
Under Part 6 of the Traffic Management Act (2004), English councils outside London did not have enforcement powers until 2022, when the previous government allowed authorities to apply on a case-by-case basis before halting new applications earlier this year.
Chris Read, leader of Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council, stated, “One of the council’s key priorities is to keep people safe, healthy, and well. These new traffic cameras will enhance road safety by ensuring more drivers adhere to long-established traffic rules, thereby helping pedestrian areas and junctions function properly for everyone.”
He added that when drivers ignore traffic signs, they often pose a danger to pedestrians and other road users. “These cameras will encourage more motorists to comply with restrictions and use our roads safely and responsibly,” he said.
The cameras will be installed in phases, with two locations in the town center and one in Catcliffe becoming operational this week, while two more at the Clifton Lane crossroads are set to go live later this year.
The council noted that there will be a brief grace period before issuing penalty charge notices, during which first-time offenders will receive warning letters.
It also highlighted that two areas in Rotherham Town Centre, High Street and Bridgegate, where the cameras are being deployed, are pedestrian zones with no motorized vehicle access between 10 am and 4 pm, except for permit holders. The council mentioned that local businesses and residents have frequently reported the issue of drivers illegally entering these streets, endangering pedestrians.
