The Loading Bays on Roads (Amendment) Order (Northern Ireland) 2024
Background
On 6 December 2024, the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) made the Loading Bays on Roads (Amendment) Order (Northern Ireland) 2024 (the Order). The Order amends the Loading Bays on Roads (Northern Ireland) Order 2018 (the 2018 Order) by:
- Removing the requirement for a loading bay to be marked with a physical sign;
- Allowing loading bays to be enforced by CCTV;
- Increasing the maximum penalty for loading bay contraventions from £100 to £150.
Reasons for the Changes
The DfI has stated that the changes are being made to improve the efficiency of loading bay enforcement and to reduce congestion on roads. The DfI believes that the use of CCTV will enable loading bays to be more effectively enforced, as it will allow for real-time monitoring and enforcement. The increase in the maximum penalty is intended to deter motorists from contravening loading bay regulations.
Key Provisions
The main provisions of the Order are as follows:
- Removal of requirement for physical signs: The Order removes the requirement for loading bays to be marked with a physical sign. This means that loading bays can now be designated by means of road markings or other means, such as paint or reflective studs.
- Enforcement by CCTV: The Order allows loading bays to be enforced by CCTV. This means that drivers who park in loading bays illegally can be issued with a penalty charge notice based on CCTV footage.
- Increase in maximum penalty: The Order increases the maximum penalty for loading bay contraventions from £100 to £150.
Implementation
The Order will come into operation on 1 April 2025. The DfI has said that it will work with local councils to ensure that loading bays are correctly designated and that enforcement is carried out fairly.
Reaction
The changes have been welcomed by some road safety groups, who believe that they will improve the safety of roads and reduce congestion. However, some businesses have expressed concerns that the changes could make it more difficult for them to load and unload goods, and that the increase in the maximum penalty could be excessive.
Conclusion
The Loading Bays on Roads (Amendment) Order (Northern Ireland) 2024 is a significant piece of legislation that will change the way that loading bays are enforced in Northern Ireland. The Order is intended to improve the efficiency of enforcement and to reduce congestion on roads. However, it is important to note that the changes could have a mixed impact on businesses and road users.
The Loading Bays on Roads (Amendment) Order (Northern Ireland) 2024
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