In July 2023 Shropshire Council was granted ‘moving traffic offences’ powers by the Department for Transport. Previously, these powers were only held by the police.

Under these powers, the council – for the first time - will be able to issue fines to drivers for offences including incorrectly driving into a bus lane, stopping in a yellow box junction, banned right or left turns, illegal U-turns and going the wrong way in a one-way street.

Nine months later, and with the impending launch of an eighteen-month ANPR camera enforced ‘School Streets’ programme, James Mark Taylor examines the challenges of introducing these powers and their impact. He will also discuss the potential opportunities these powers present to rural local authorities to support active and sustainable travel.

James Mark Taylor, Sustainable Travel Officer, Shropshire Council

James Mark Taylor’s work includes encouraging sustainable travel to schools in Central Shropshire as well as leading on road safety education in the county. He has previous experience of working with school crossing patrols as well as delivering active travel initiatives in primary schools.

The Sustainable Travel Team at Shropshire Council works with schools and communities to encourage the switch to sustainable travel modes through behaviour change programmes and campaigns.