The Stockport roads at the centre of crackdown on driving offences

Stockport council has been given new powers to fine drivers for traffic offences. From December 6 the town hall will be able to crack down on dangerous driving by giving out penalty charge notices on selected roads with ‘persistent’ problems.

This will improve safety and reduce congestion the council said, and could be used to fine drivers who enter yellow box junctions when the exit is not clear or drive on routes that are for buses and taxis only, among other offences.

In 2022 the government allowed councils to apply for these powers to help tackle local issues on the roads, which were previously enforced by police under criminal law.

READ MORE: Stockport’s Metrolink plan to 'move ahead' next year

A Stockport council consultation launched last year identified five initial locations where this might be used - but the council said the exact locations will be confirmed in the New Year.

Areas included in the consultation were:

Coun Grace Baynham, the council's cabinet member for parks, highways and transport services, said: "The moving traffic offences enforcement will help improve the driving experience in various locations around Stockport.

"The legislation, which will bring the borough in line with many other councils both in our region and nationally, is aimed at helping to reduce congestion, increase road safety, and improve journey times for motorists and for those using public transport.

"The powers will include improved signage and road marking, and, in particular, will significantly help support the rollout of bus franchising to Stockport from January next year.

"We are committed to investing in technology to support safer and more reliable roads, and support the Greater Manchester Vision Zero road safety