Cambridgeshire County Council considers camera enforcement for school streets

Cambridgeshire County Council is evaluating the use of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras to enforce ‘school streets’ regulations. These zones restrict vehicle movements during school drop-off and pick-up times to lower pollution levels and promote walking and active travel.

Initial planning is already underway to use ANPR cameras for enforcing turning restrictions on specific roads, such as Downing Street. While council officers are investigating the use of cameras for school streets, further assessments are required before formal approval.

Local officials have expressed varying views on the proposal. Cllr Darren Green supported the move, noting that school street initiatives can be fragile and often rely heavily on volunteers. Conversely, Cllr Alex Beckett emphasized the continued importance of community volunteers, though he acknowledged that cameras might be necessary in areas where volunteers face harassment.