By Declan Carey

Stockport Council has confirmed it is seeking new powers to fine drivers who break the rules, despite concerns over the quality of road markings and signs in the borough.

The council will apply for moving traffic offences enforcement powers by October 25, and if successful it will be able to issue Penalty Charge Notices to motorists in five initial locations:

• A6/George Lane Junction – Enforcement of restricted right turn onto A6
• A6/Bramhall Lane Junction – Enforcement of restricted right turn onto A6 and restricted left turn onto Bramhall Lane
• A6/New Moor Lane – Enforcement of entry into yellow box at junction of New Moor Lane and A6
• Demmings Road/Queens Road – Enforcement of the 7.5-ton weight limit on bridge
• Massie Street/High Street – Enforcement of restricted right turn onto High Street

If the council's bid is successful, it is expected that the powers will come into effect in spring 2024. A consultation of residents, which ran from February 14 to March 28, showed overall support for the plan but highlighted issues with the current road setup.

Feedback included faded road markings, a need for more signs, and privacy concerns in regards to the use of number plate recognition cameras.

Councillor Grace Baynham, Cabinet Member for Parks, Highways & Transport Services, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that the powers will help improve the driving experience in Stockport.

She said: "There is no intention to catch people out, we want to try to improve traffic movements and help people getting about. It is there to stop dangerous driving."

Drivers who are caught breaking the rules within the first six months will receive a written warning for a first-time offense before fines are issued.

The council says the powers would help to reduce congestion, increase road safety, and improve journey times for those using public transport.

Cllr Baynham explained that the Council would seek to ensure the road marking and signs in each of the five areas are brought up to scratch and easy to see before the scheme comes into effect.

She added: "Once we are granted the powers we will look at it and then make a decision on future policy.

"We are going to look at ways to identify areas of concern for residents and we will decide whether they should be rolled out to other areas."

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