COUNCIL SEEKS NEW POWERS TO FINE DRIVERS WHO BLOCK YELLOW BOX JUNCTIONS AND CYCLE LANES

Salford City Council is to seek new powers from the government to fine drivers who block yellow box junctions or drive in cycle lanes following public consultation.

At the moment only police officers can take action on 'moving traffic' offences which also include misusing one-way streets, ignoring no entry and turning restrictions and driving in areas where cars are not permitted. The government offered local councils the opportunity to apply for the power to enforce these offences following a public consultation to test local public opinion.

Over 300 people responded to proposals to use the new powers at six sites across Salford with 60 to 64 per cent in favour of enforcement action at each one.  People also suggested enforcement at other sites across the city which the council will consider for future expansion of the scheme.

Councillor Mike McCusker, lead member for planning and sustainable development, said:

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"The aim of this is simply to enforce the laws that are in place to keep traffic moving and improve road safety and public support for this is clear."

Salford City Council plans to use the powers to stop drivers blocking yellow box junctions, making illegal turns or driving in cycle lanes at Chapel Street and Trinity Way, Irwell Street and Trinity Way, Blackfriars Street, Regent Street and Oldfield Road, Chorley Road and Salford Civic Centre and Blackfriars Road and Silk Street. In time the powers could be used across the whole city.