Starting Monday, motorists in Somerset will encounter newly activated traffic cameras as part of Bath and North East Somerset Council’s efforts to improve road safety and reduce congestion. The introduction of these cameras, utilising Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology, marks a significant step in enforcing existing traffic restrictions across Bath and Keynsham.
These cameras will begin operation on 24 August at key locations throughout the area. To support drivers in adapting to these changes, the council will implement a six-month warning period during which first-time contraventions will result in warning notices instead of Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs).
Several enforced restrictions are integral to the council’s Liveable Neighbourhoods programme, designed to create safer streets, ease congestion, and improve conditions for walking, wheeling, and cycling. The council emphasises that compliance with these restrictions will help achieve these objectives.
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Cabinet member for sustainable transport delivery, Councillor Lucy Hodge, highlighted the importance of consistent enforcement: “The restrictions at these locations were introduced to address specific road safety and traffic management challenges. Camera enforcement ensures these rules are followed consistently and fairly. When drivers ignore these restrictions, it endangers others and contributes to unnecessary congestion and delays. Our goal is to foster a safer environment for all road users while maintaining efficient traffic flow.”
The council is authorised to enforce various traffic contraventions including yellow box junction violations, banned turns, commercial vehicle weight limits, and driving in mandatory cycle lanes. However, offences related to speeding will continue to be managed by the police.
Regarding finances, any income generated from PCNs is strictly regulated by law. The council is required to cover operational and enforcement costs first, with any surplus funds being allocated exclusively for transport-related initiatives. These include enhancing road safety, supporting public transport, improving infrastructure for walking and cycling, and maintaining highways.
Motorists are urged to familiarise themselves with the existing traffic restrictions ahead of full enforcement to ensure compliance and contribute to safer, more sustainable local journeys.