A motorist in Northampton has called West Northants Council (WNC) ‘sneaky’ and ‘opportunistic’ following the introduction of traffic enforcement cameras in Northampton town centre.
Adam Bell, the motorist, received a penalty charge notice (PCN) from WNC for driving to the top of Gold Street, which is only for buses.
A camera to enforce this limitation went live on January 13, covering the bus-only stretch at the top of Gold Street between College and Bridge Streets.
Mr Bell commented, “What a way to keep business in town. I support reforms to increase road safety, but I’m having trouble seeing the safety benefits of a bus lane and failing to communicate this to the public.It appears that there is a chance to profit from such a transformation. “Very sneaky.”
Another camera went live in December at the Marefair/Horseshoe Street intersection with Gold Street. It is intended to target drivers who make illegal turns, such as driving left from Horseshoe Street into Marefair or right onto Gold Street.
The punishment for breaching the guidelines is a £70 fine, which is reduced to £35 if paid within 21 days.
A WNC spokeswoman responded, saying, “Traffic enforcement cameras have been rolled out across the area as part of a phased approach to enhance public transportation routes, improve pedestrian, cyclist, and driver safety, encourage better driver behavior, and prevent people from making dangerous manoeuvres on the highway.”
“The new camera at the top of Gold Street enforces current bus lane standards that have been in existence for almost 25 years. The new camera installation was publicized to motorists through local media and Council channels. Warning letters were delivered to individuals who violated the restriction between December 20 and 31, prior to the site’s launch on January 13.There is also new signage indicating that an enforcement camera is in operation, which is clearly visible. If someone believes they have received a penalty charge notice (PCN) improperly, they can appeal it; the process is described on the reverse of the PCN.”
The Chronicle and Echo has requested enforcement scheme data, specifically a monthly breakdown of figures for new enforcement cameras in the town.
Previously, the council gave the most recent demand numbers to the press. However, they have since stated that the data can only be released on a quarterly basis, with March representing the first quarter of the year.
The information we’ve asked includes:
A monthly breakdown of the number of PCNs issued.
Total amount (pounds) received in payments
Total amount (£) currently outstanding.
Number of appeals received.
Number of successful and unsuccessful appeals.
Number of court summonses issued
In February of this year, West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) began enforcing the hatching yellow box at the intersection of St John’s Street and Victoria Gardens, directly outside its headquarters in Angel Square.
Between February and November 2024, WNC earned around £90,000 from this one enforcement area.
The Chronicle and Echo requested for the most recent information on this, but were advised to wait until March.
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