Drivers will be fined if they attempt dangerous manoeuvres at four locations across Lancashire, under new powers being rolled out for enforcing moving traffic offences.
As well as improving road safety and reducing accidents, it is hoped that this will also help reduce congestion and journey times by keeping traffic flowing.
The council plans to initially introduce the powers at four locations which include prohibited turns and a one-way street: Charnley Street, and Ringway/Bow Lane junction, both in Preston; Hyndburn Road (at the entrance to McDonalds) in Accrington and Morecambe Road (at the entrance to Aldi) in Lancaster.
The offences targeted include:
- Turning left, right or making U-turns when instructed not to do so
- Driving the wrong way up one-way streets
- Entering yellow box junctions when the exit is not clear
- Driving where/when motor vehicles are prohibited
Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology will be used to identify drivers, with enforcement going live from February 2.
During the first six months of enforcement, warning notices will be issued for a first offence to educate drivers about the contravention that they have committed. If the same vehicle is recorded committing a second offence within this period the driver will receive a Penalty Charge Notice, which is £70 but discounted to £35 if paid within the first 21 days. After the first six months PCNs will be issued for a first offence.
Councillor Warren Goldsworthy, cabinet member for Highways and Transport at Lancashire County Council said: "The aim of this scheme is to improve road safety by deterring drivers from making these dangerous manoeuvres.
"Using new powers which target moving traffic offences, we will be stopping drivers from making illegal U-turns, going the wrong way up one-way streets and making prohibited manoeuvres.
"For the first six months, drivers will receive a warning letter for a first offence to let them know that they've made a potentially dangerous manoeuvre. People should already know the rules of the road, but this will help to educate anyone who isn't aware. After that, they will receive a fine."
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