UK Introduces New Legislation on Bus Lane Enforcement
Date: 2024-11-11 11:29
Title: The Bus Lane Contraventions (Approved Local Authorities) (England) (Amendment) and Civil Enforcement of Moving Traffic Contraventions Designation Order 2024
Introduction:
The UK government has introduced new legislation that allows local authorities in England to enforce bus lane contraventions through civil enforcement measures. This means that drivers who illegally enter or drive in bus lanes can now face fines without necessarily being issued a traffic penalty notice.
Scope and Enforcement:
The new legislation designates 10 local authorities in England as “approved local authorities” for the purpose of enforcing bus lane contraventions through civil enforcement. These authorities are:
- Birmingham City Council
- Bradford City Council
- Bristol City Council
- Derby City Council
- Leeds City Council
- Leicester City Council
- Liverpool City Council
- Manchester City Council
- Nottingham City Council
- Sheffield City Council
Approved local authorities can install and operate automated enforcement systems to capture images of vehicles entering or driving in bus lanes at prohibited times. These systems will issue a notice to the registered owner of the vehicle, who will then have the option to pay the penalty or contest the notice.
Penalties:
The penalty charge for a bus lane contravention under this new legislation is set at £60. Drivers who fail to pay the penalty within 28 days may face an increased charge of £90.
Contesting Notices:
Drivers who receive a notice for a bus lane contravention can contest the notice by submitting a formal representation to the local authority within 28 days of receiving the notice. The local authority will then review the representation and make a decision on whether to uphold or cancel the penalty.
Objectives:
The new legislation aims to improve bus lane compliance, enhance road safety, and reduce congestion. By allowing local authorities to enforce bus lane contraventions through civil enforcement measures, the government hopes to deter drivers from illegally entering or driving in bus lanes, thereby improving the flow of traffic and creating a safer environment for bus passengers and other road users.
Conclusion:
The Bus Lane Contraventions (Approved Local Authorities) (England) (Amendment) and Civil Enforcement of Moving Traffic Contraventions Designation Order 2024 marks a significant change in the enforcement of bus lane contraventions in England. By empowering approved local authorities with civil enforcement powers, the government aims to improve bus lane compliance, enhance road safety, and reduce congestion. The legislation represents a continued effort to improve the efficiency and fairness of the traffic enforcement system in the UK.
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