Cameras could be installed to catch box junction blockers at busy Leamington junction

Warwickshire County Council (WCC) is considering putting up Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras at the junction at High Street and Bath Street, an congestion hotspot in town.

Drivers can be penalised for entering a yellow box junction when the exit is blocked – although the slightly unsymmetrical layout of the junction does catch some drivers out.

WCC is now asking for residents’ views on the cameras.

“The consultation does not propose any new traffic restrictions,” said WCC.

“Instead, it seeks views on whether the county council should apply to the Department for Transport for powers to enforce existing restrictions using ANPR cameras, alongside current police enforcement.”

The junction at High Street and Bath Street in Leamington is one of six locations being considered across the county.

Councillor Stephen Shaw, portfolio holder for transport and planning, said: “The locations identified have been selected using a range of evidence showing poor compliance with existing restrictions, which can create safety risks and congestion. Before taking any further steps, we want to hear what residents, organisations and road users think about these proposals.

“Feedback from the consultation will help us understand any concerns, inform any changes needed and shape our next steps.”

The consultation is now open and will run for six weeks – closing at midnight on October 25.

Residents can take part via Warwickshire County Council's Ask Warwickshire platform – https://ask.warwickshire.gov.uk/bi/moving-traffic-order-enforcement/

Following the consultation, the council's Cabinet will consider the findings and decide whether to apply for enforcement powers.

If approval is granted, a further publicity and warning period would be introduced before any enforcement begins.