Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

ANPR and Width Restrictions

23 March 2021 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Dean Russell Con Watford

Transport

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Dean Russell raised concerns about anpr and width restrictions in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Dean Russell raised concerns about physical width restrictions on Woodmere Avenue causing vehicle damage and resident inconvenience.
  • Russell proposed using ANPR systems but noted that section 6 powers under the Traffic Management Act 2004 are only available in London.
  • Minister Rachel Maclean stated that traffic management powers lie with local authorities, who can restrict access based on vehicle types.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Dean Russell Con Watford

Dean Russell raised concerns about physical width restrictions on Woodmere Avenue in his constituency, which have caused damage to vehicles and inconvenience for residents. He proposed using automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) systems as a potential solution but highlighted that section 6 powers under the Traffic Management Act 2004 are only available in London and not elsewhere. Russell emphasised the importance of local control over decisions affecting one’s community, advocating for more inclusive engagement processes such as door-to-door surveys.

Other contributors (1)
  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    The hon. Member supports Dean Russell's argument about the need for common sense in addressing local issues.

Government Response

Rachel Maclean

Rachel Maclean commended Dean Russell and councillor candidate Carly Bishop for their efforts to address the issue on Woodmere Avenue. She explained that traffic management responsibilities lie with local authorities, who have the power to restrict access to roads based on vehicle types. The minister outlined that part 6 powers under the Traffic Management Act 2004 would not include width restrictions and therefore would not help resolve the situation in Woodmere Avenue. Additionally, she suggested reviewing signing clarity for advance notification of width restrictions and the potential use of CCTV enforcement for bus lanes. Maclean emphasised the role of local councillors in advocating for their constituents' concerns and securing change, reiterating her willingness to continue working with Russell towards a suitable solution.

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