Bath and North East Somerset Council is considering stepping up its enforcement of traffic rules, aiming to boost income through fines for violations such as stopping in yellow box junctions or making illegal turns on one-way streets. From next year, drivers caught breaking these rules could face a higher chance of receiving fines, which will contribute to the council’s efforts to balance its budget.
The council plans to generate an additional £250,000 through these increased traffic enforcement measures. This initiative is part of a wider consultation on various proposed savings and new revenue streams for next year’s budget.
According to an equalities impact assessment, heightened enforcement of traffic restrictions—like banned turns and one-way streets—will make roads safer for everyone and encourage motorists to comply with regulations.
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Other proposals under consultation include changes to recycling centre operating hours, new parking fees, reductions to the council’s in-house pest control services, higher park and ride fares, and introducing a nominal charge for the currently free discovery cards. The consultation period remains open until January 19.
In addition to enforcement changes, the council proposes raising council tax by the maximum allowable rate of 4.99%. Of this increase, two percentage points are earmarked specifically for adult social care services.
Mark Elliott, cabinet member for resources, stated in December, “Despite many councils facing cutbacks, we are committed to protecting and investing in frontline services, including adult and children’s social services, as well as maintaining expenditure on roads, culture, and environmental upkeep.”
He added that government funding details for the next year remain unclear but are expected to decrease, and that current government calculations assume all councils will adopt the full 4.99% council tax rise. Elliott expressed disagreement with this approach, urging ministers not to impose further budget reductions on councils.
The council is carefully managing taxpayers’ money and using thorough analysis to develop a balanced budget proposal, which will be considered in February once government funding levels are confirmed.
Residents are encouraged to participate in the consultation before it closes on January 19.