New CCTV network targeting illegal drivers for Greenwich

Those driving in bus lanes, ignoring no-entry signs and driving the wrong way in one-way streets will now be punished through penalty charge notices issued by Greenwich Council along with CCTV video of your offence.

Illegal parking activity will also be enforced using the network of cameras, such as illegal parking at bus stops and parking on 'keep clear' markings outside schools.

The CCTV enforcement comes into affect from Monday, August 24, but for the first two weeks anyone caught will be given a warning notice and not have to pay a fine.

Cllr Jackie Smith, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Enforcement said: “Enforcing traffic contraventions in this way improves road safety and congestion and encourages safer driving, which all helps to reduce the likelihood of accidents happening.

"Parking in bus stops, bus stands and outside schools is especially dangerous for our most vulnerable residents, so I’m really pleased that this system will be used to improve their safety while travelling.

"The benefits of safer driving and less congestion for our environment should not be forgotten either and so I welcome the introduction of CCTV traffic enforcement in Royal Greenwich.”

The council says that parking on Keep Clear markings outside schools "poses a serious threat to child safety."

Making illegal turns and ignoring no entry signs can have serious consequences for pedestrians and other motorists, while stopping in yellow box junctions impacts journey times which can lead to congestion, delays and poor air quality.

Research also shows that CCTV enforcement in bus lanes reduces the number of people using the lanes illegally, and actually improves bus running times and reliability.

The move sees moving traffic offences actually transfer over from the police to the council, and follows the government recently extending powers to enforce traffic contraventions by CCTV.

A full list of signs and restrictions CCTV can enforce can be found here.