A local authority has backed the introduction of new traffic safety measures coming in while emphasising they do not represent a “war on motorists”.
The measures introduced by Lincolnshire County Council come after a report outlined several initiatives aimed at improving road safety across the county. This included stricter enforcement around schools and enhanced Blue Badge parking provisions.
Councillor Gary Taylor explained that the measures aim to “balance safety and traffic flow” rather than target drivers with punishing fines.
The plan included proposals for community-funded CCTV cameras, revised pedestrian crossing criteria, and new policies on HGV weight limits in sensitive areas.
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The council report hopes to improve road safety across the region without punishing drivers
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Councillor Tom Ashton described the proposal to allow local communities to fund CCTV cameras outside schools as a “seismic change” for the county.
He said: “It recognises that we as the county council can’t do everything, and we have to work in partnership with communities, helping them to help themselves.”
The authority has already committed to funding CCTV cameras outside 10 schools identified as having the most severe traffic problems.
The scheme could potentially be expanded to include more schools, with communities given the option to fund additional cameras in their areas.
Meanwhile, the council’s report recommended looking at the criteria for pedestrian crossings, with a particular focus on “accident severity” in assessment decisions.
The recommendations aim to ensure decisions about new crossings are “timely and transparent” through improved communication with local councillors.
The council also plans to seek additional sponsorship opportunities to enhance the appearance of roundabouts and verges across the county.
Smith highlighted his own personal challenges with disabled parking access, stating that as a Blue Badge holder, “I’ve seen how hard it is to get a space”.
He added: “I’ve witnessed flouting of them after 6.30pm because residents know parking wardens aren’t walking about.”
The council’s report also recommended expanding the provision of 24-hour disabled parking bays, particularly in areas supporting both daytime and nighttime economies.
A public engagement survey showed strong demand for improved accessibility and more consistent enforcement of Blue Badge bays.
Councillor Robert Gibson welcomed the proposals, stating mandatory no-parking markings and prioritisation of schools was “music to my ears.” The report has now been forwarded to the council’s executive for consideration.
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Council hopes to introduce more traffic cameras across the county
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The measures form part of a broader strategy to create what Taylor described as “a policy framework that balances safety, traffic flow and community welfare”.
Officials did stress that the focus remains on creating safer roads for all users without disadvantaging motorists or businesses.
