Drivers in Solihull are now subject to £70 fines as new traffic enforcement cameras become operational following the end of a six-month grace period. The first cameras have been activated at the A34 Stratford Road and Richard Lewis Way junction in Shirley, with additional sites set to follow.
New Camera Locations and Enforcement
Four locations have been identified for the new cameras. The B4102 Warwick Road/New Road junction will enforce yellow box junction violations, where drivers enter and stop. Elm Farm Avenue in Marston Green will enforce a ban on driving through a School Streets zone except for access. Station Road into Poplar Road will enforce restrictions on entering and waiting in a pedestrian zone except for access.
Solihull Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Infrastructure, Cllr Ken Hawkins, said: “I am pleased to see these new powers rolled out in Solihull, which strengthens our commitment to improving road safety. Whilst the majority of motorists do follow the rules, there is a minority who don’t, putting others at risk. Stronger enforcement at these locations will reduce dangerous manoeuvres, cut congestion, and ultimately make our roads safer for road users and pedestrians alike – including school children.”
Grace Period and Penalties
During the first six months of operation, first-time offenders will receive a written warning. Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) will be issued for repeat offences within the first six months, and for any offence after the warning period ends. PCNs are set at £70, reduced to £35 if paid within 21 days. Motorists have the right to appeal the fine, according to the local authority.
Funding for the cameras has been allocated from the Council's Civil Parking/Bus Lane Enforcement reserve. After the initial period, the cameras will be self-funded, with any surplus income paid back into this statutory ringfenced reserve, the council added.
Impact on Drivers
The crackdown aims to improve road safety and reduce congestion in Solihull. Drivers are urged to comply with traffic regulations to avoid penalties. The initiative targets dangerous manoeuvres and violations that put pedestrians, including school children, at risk.
