Traffic Camera Enforcement Consultation

Introduction

Surrey County Council is seeking the views of residents, local businesses, visitors and road users on a proposal to introduce camera enforcement of the existing bus lane restriction on London Road Westbound from Grand Ave.

The bus lane is already in place and is clearly marked by traffic signs and road markings. However, surveys have identified a significant number of vehicles using the bus lane when they are not permitted to do so.

The proposed enforcement camera would help improve compliance with the existing restriction, supporting more reliable bus services, reducing delays, and improving the safe and efficient operation of the local highway network.

This consultation provides an opportunity for you to give your views before a final decision is made.

Background and Legislation

Under Part 6 of the Traffic Management Act 2004, local authorities can enforce certain moving traffic restrictions and bus lane contraventions using cameras.

In 2022, the Department for Transport (DfT) designated Surrey County Council as a Civil Enforcement Area for Moving Traffic Contraventions. This gives the Council powers to use camera technology to enforce traffic restrictions and improve compliance with traffic regulations.

The purpose of these powers is to improve road safety, reduce congestion, support more reliable journey times and help keep traffic moving efficiently.

What is the Existing Bus Lane Restriction?

The bus lane on London Road, Camberley is reserved for authorised vehicles during its hours of operation. The restriction is clearly indicated through traffic signs and road markings.

The bus lane has been introduced to help buses move through the area more efficiently, providing more reliable journey times for public transport users and supporting the wider transport network.

The proposal does not introduce any new restrictions. It is intended solely to improve compliance with the existing bus lane restriction.

How Would the Restriction Be Enforced?

If approved, an Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) camera would be installed to monitor compliance with the bus lane restriction.

Vehicle registrations recorded by the camera would be reviewed where there is evidence that a vehicle has entered or used the bus lane contrary to the restriction. Where a contravention is identified, a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) may be issued by post.

Civil Enforcement Officers may also undertake enforcement activities and compliance checks where appropriate.

Why Is Enforcement Being Proposed?

The bus lane on London Road was introduced to improve the reliability and efficiency of local bus services and to help manage traffic flow on this important route.

Traffic surveys carried out by Surrey County Council identified a notable number of vehicles using the bus lane despite the existing restriction.

Unauthorised use of the bus lane can:

• Delay buses and reduce service reliability.
• Increase congestion by disrupting the intended operation of the road network.
• Reduce the effectiveness of measures designed to support sustainable transport.
• Create conflicts between authorised and unauthorised vehicles.
• Negatively impact public transport users who rely on reliable journey times.

By improving compliance with the existing bus lane restriction, the Council aims to support bus services, improve traffic management and encourage sustainable travel choices.

Proposed Enforcement Location

A30 London Road Westbound from Grand Ave, Camberley

Location map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/p7Yvok2MweAvHi7R9

What Would This Mean for Drivers?

Drivers who comply with the existing bus lane restriction will not be affected.

The proposal does not change how the bus lane operates and does not introduce any new traffic restrictions.

In accordance with Department for Transport guidance, Surrey County Council intends to operate an initial education period following implementation. During this period, warning notices may be issued instead of Penalty Charge Notices to first-time offenders.

Following the education period, a Penalty Charge Notice of £70 (reduced to £35 if paid within the discount period) may be issued for contraventions.

Have Your Say

We welcome your comments on the proposed camera enforcement of the existing bus lane restriction on London Road, Camberley.

Your feedback will help Surrey County Council understand local views and inform the final decision on whether to proceed with the proposal.

Consultation ends on the 22nd of September 2026