Enforcement measures to be introduced from 16 April on George Street, Corby
Parking, roads and transport11 April 2024
From Tuesday 16 April, enforcement measures will be in force to deter drivers from using a section of George Street in Corby as a cut-through.
Only taxis, buses and cyclists will be able to enter the main crossing section between the hours of 8am - 6pm Monday - Saturday from 16 April.
The measures have been introduced to improve safety for pedestrians crossing the road and the previous traffic regulation order (TRO) has been replaced with one that will enable North Northamptonshire Council to enforce vehicle access restrictions, using automatic number plate recognition (ANPR).
Anyone found to be breaching the order will face a fine of £70 (reduced to £35 if paid within 21 days). Following guidance from central government, there will be a grace period in place for the next 6 months, in which anyone driving through the section of George Street will receive a warning letter but not be fined, on the first occasion only. If they continue to flout the rules, a fine will be issued. Once the 6-month grace period has finished, anyone not permitted to drive through the section will receive a letter and fine.
We have had comments and concerns from residents about the safety of this particular stretch of road for pedestrians. As well as helping to improve safety levels, the introduction of these enforcement measure will significantly improve the accessibility and mobility for pedestrians and cyclists moving between the town centre retail area and leisure quarters.Cllr Matt Binley, the council’s Executive Member for Highways, Travel and Assets
Amending or introducing a TRO is always a last resort, but we hope in this case it will make a significant improvement - reducing the number of vehicles using George Street.
Unfortunately drivers were ignoring the previous TRO, which is why we have amended the TRO and will be taking enforcement action against anyone who flouts the updated TRO.Jason Smithers, Leader of the Council
But to give drivers time to adjust, and due to the number of drivers who currently use George Street, there will be a grace period for the next 6 months, with anyone driving unpermitted through this stretch, on the first occasion, receiving a warning letter, which will give drivers time to adjust to the change.”
The amended TRO doesn’t restrict access completely and buses, taxis, private hire and cyclists will still be able to access the section, so pedestrians should be aware.