Fixed cameras to catch Boscombe cycle lane parking ruled out

Cllr Mike Greene gave the assessment when asked to commit to installing cameras to shop drivers blocking cycle lanes in Christchurch Road, Boscombe.

Independent Boscombe East and Pokesdown ward member Andy Jones made the request at BCP Council’s full council meeting on December 5.

He said the move was something that had been utilised by other councils, having earlier referenced Daily Echo reports on the issue in Christchurch Road.

“The cycle lanes in this section of road are regularly abused with numerous vehicles ignoring the no waiting and no loading restriction at will day and night,” Cllr Jones said.

Cllr Andy Jones (Image: BCP Council)

“Needless to say this is causing much anger and frustration for those who wish to cycle through this area but are unable to do so due to the obvious danger posed by these vehicles.

“While I appreciate the council’s civil enforcement officers are doing all they can to tackle this problem, they cannot be there all day, every day.”

Read more: BCP Council plans for new contraflow cycle lanes in Bournemouth

Cllr Greene, portfolio holder for transport, said the local authority had resurfaced Christchurch Road and made some of the cycle lanes mandatory rather than advisory.

This means they could be enforced through the use of cameras as there was a waiting restriction in place.

“Generally it may be useful to know that where the council currently carries out enforcement of for example ‘keep clear’ markings at schools using both fixed cameras and a camera car, the fine income does not cover the cost of enforcement work,” Cllr Greene said.

Cllr Mike Greene (Image: BCP Council)

“Fixed cameras are particularly costly compared with the fine revenue collected. There may though be the opportunity for an occasional visit from the camera car when it is not in use elsewhere subject to other priority demands and I have asked officers to look into this.

“The council can also enforce the waiting restrictions on this route using its civil enforcement officers. The council has been working to build up the capacity of its civil enforcement team and will continue to regularly patrol this route in an effort to keep it clear.”