Peterborough council using ANPR cameras to stop 'illegal' driving

The council said the cameras would detect any driving in the cycle and walkways on Long Causeway

A council is bringing in the use of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) on three of its streets to crack down on what it calls "poor and illegal" driving habits.

Peterborough City Council said it would introduce the scheme on Monday after getting government approval last year.

The technology would identify offences including driving in pedestrian and cycle zones.

The council says it will improve safety and "encourage sustainable travel".

It was granted the new enforcement powers after applying to the Secretary of State last year, following a six-week public consultation.

Part of Westgate is one of the areas being managed with ANPR

Enforcement will be carried out by ANPR cameras, with warning signs in place.

It will cover pedestrian and cycle zones in Long Causeway and Westgate, and will enforce restrictions in Queens Drive West, which is a designated "safer school street".

Gavin Elsey from the Peterborough First group - also cabinet member for infrastructure, environment and climate change - said: "The new powers will help us achieve many of our key aims such as improving road safety and encouraging sustainable travel, benefitting road users and residents alike."

A "safer schools street", Queens Drive West, is also included in the ANPR enforcement areas

The enforcement of three further sites - Church Street which has a no-entry sign, and Apollo Avenue and Bellona Drive where there is a bus gate - will start at a later date.

During the first six months of enforcement at any new site, warning notices will be issued on the first occasion of any offence.

After that time, penalty charge notices will be issued for any further contraventions.