From Monday, June 1, vehicles have been banned from driving along four key shopping streets in Gloucester city centre, with new Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras now in operation. Gloucestershire County Council introduced these measures to enhance road safety and ease traffic congestion.
The ANPR cameras monitor Northgate Street, Eastgate Street, Westgate Street, and Southgate Street, where vehicle access is prohibited at all times, except for permit holders and loading periods from 8-10 am and 5-6 pm. Similar cameras have also been installed at locations in Cheltenham, including restrictions near the Cheltenham Transport Hub and a banned right turn on the A40 Shelburne Road.
These initiatives aim to speed up bus journeys, improve emergency vehicle access, and encourage compliance with existing traffic restrictions. This rollout represents the first phase of moving traffic offence enforcement, with plans to expand to fifteen locations countywide. During the first six months, offending drivers will receive warning letters before penalties are enforced. Any fine revenue will be reinvested into the local transport infrastructure.
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Cllr Roger Whyborn, cabinet member for sustainable transport and road safety, emphasized the importance of safer, more reliable roads for everyone. He highlighted the phased approach taken in response to public feedback, ensuring the rollout prioritizes locations with the highest community support.
Similarly, Cllr Rebecca Trimnell stressed how the new measures will improve Gloucester’s gated streets by reducing traffic, making the city centre more accessible and pleasant for pedestrians and cyclists.
Local businesses have expressed mixed reactions. Chrissie, manager of the Great Western Air Ambulance Charity shop on Northgate Street, welcomed the cameras, believing they will deter inappropriate driving and create a safer pedestrian environment. She also suggested that enforcement for bikes and scooters would be a useful next step.
David Brindley from Gloucestershire Arts and Crafts Centre on Westgate Street agreed the restrictions improve safety and encourage foot traffic but noted logistical challenges for deliveries during restricted hours. He called for better understanding of business needs regarding loading times.
On the other hand, John Clingan, manager at Farmhouse Deli on Southgate Street, voiced concern that the council’s focus on banning cars has negatively impacted city centre shops by making access more expensive and complicated. He highlighted the problem of fast-moving electric bikes, which remain unaddressed by the new measures.
As Gloucester adapts to these changes, the council continues to monitor the impact and plans further enforcement phases to promote safer, more sustainable travel across the county.