Traffic enforcement measures to be introduced on George Street, Corby

06 February 2024

From March, enforcement measures will be introduced to deter drivers from using a section of George Street in Corby as a cut-through.

Following a consultation in late 2023, the traffic regulation order (TRO) will be replaced with one that will enable North Northamptonshire Council to enforce vehicle access restrictions, using automatic number plate recognition cameras (ANPR).

It is hoped that the move will improve safety for pedestrians crossing the road by allowing only taxis, buses and cyclists to enter the main crossing section between the hours of 8am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday. These works will significantly improve the accessibility and mobility for pedestrians and cyclists moving between the town centre retail area and the leisure quarter, as well as improve the attractiveness of the public realm and reduce noise from road vehicles. It will encourage more independent movement and provide safety for shoppers on this section of George Street during busy times.

Anyone found to be breaching the order would face a fine of £70 (reduced to £35 if paid within 21 days). 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. Following this feedback, earlier in the year, Executive agreed to replacing the current TRO with one that would allow enforcement of vehicle access restrictions, this was followed up by a public consultation and measures will now be introduced from March.

The introduction of enforcement measures is always a last resort, but we hope that by amending the TRO and using ANPR will help reduce the number of vehicles using George Street, making a significant improvement to the area.Cllr Matt Binley, the council’s Executive Member for Highways, Travel and Assets

Although we are introducing enforcement measures on this stretch of George Street, for the next 6 months - there will be a grace period, with anyone driving unpermitted through receiving a warning letter, which will give drivers time to adjust to the change.

I would also like to mention that buses, taxis, private hire and cyclists will still be able access the section, so pedestrians should still be aware when using the crossing.Cllr Jason Smithers, Leader of the Council

An exact go live date for the traffic enforcement measures will be published on NNC’s channels.