MOTORISTS in Hull caught using bus lanes illegally can soon expect to be given £60 fines.
In June, Hull City Council trialled the latest cameras, which use automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) technology, to gauge the extent of the problem in Anlaby Road.
During a two-week period, hundreds of motorists were caught using the lanes during the hours they were in operation, although the authority chose not to issue fines.
A report ordered by Councillor Martin Mancey, the portfolio holder for transport, is to published within days, with the likelihood that it will recommend introducing the cameras.
Cllr Mancey says he is strongly in favour of the cameras, although he readily concedes it is likely to put him on collision course with some drivers.
He said: "Fines are likely to be £60, or £30 if paid promptly.
"Although the potential income from fines would not be insignificant, the objective is to get drivers to properly observe the rules of the road."
The Mail reminded Cllr Mancey of comments left on the Mail's website after the cameras were trialled in the summer.
"I have no doubts some people will say it's just Hull City Council trying to profit," he said.
"What I would say in answer to that is that if there are any profits to be made after running costs are taken into account it will be put back into the highways network, which will benefit the law-abiding motorist."
Asked what the council will do to ensure motorists are fully aware of the cameras, Cllr Mancey said: "What I have said to officers is that I want to ensure there is plenty of publicity prior to introducing these cameras.
"We do not want motorists to be taken by surprise. Secondly, we also need to make absolutely certain that signage is crystal-clear.
"Drivers need to know when they can and can't use the bus lanes and that cameras have been installed."
Cllr Mancey was unable to say exactly where the cameras will be installed. Details will emerge later, he said.
However, subject to final approval from the authority's cabinet committee, camera sites will include Anlaby Road, Beverley Road and Holderness Road.
It is thought the cameras could be installed in the new year.
Cllr Mancey pointed out ANPR bus lane cameras are commonplace in other large towns and cities.
"Our ultimate aim is to improve traffic flow in Hull," he said.
Earlier this month, Cllr Mancey was forced to shelve plans for a 20mph speed limit in the city centre in a bid to improve pedestrian safety in the build-up to City of Culture 2017.
It followed a week of monitoring carried out in nine city centre streets, including Lowgate, Market Place and Carr Lane, which showed not one car broke the 30mph speed limit.
The highest speed was 30mph in Alfred Gelder Street. Other streets recorded speeds ranging from 23mph to 27mph.
The report said "careful consideration should be given to the question, 'what would the benefits be of progressing with a 20mph zone within the city?'" as there is not a speeding issue.
Councillors were told they can go out to consultation, but were warned the scheme would cost at least £65,000.
