New Ferry Regeneration: ANPR Cameras Proposed to Protect Pedestrianised Bebington Road
Efforts to make the heart of New Ferry a safer and more attractive place to visit and shop are continuing with a plan to deter vehicles from entering designated pedestrianised areas.
As work on the next phase of regeneration gets underway, Wirral Council is proposing to introduce Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) camera technology to bolster the enforcement of moving traffic restrictions on part of Bebington Road.
These restrictions have been in place for 40 years and are designed to create a safe environment for shoppers by keeping the area clear of motor vehicles.
The current rules prohibit vehicles from entering and parking in the pedestrianised zone, which reduces unnecessary traffic while still allowing businesses to load and unload goods at any time.
This helps keep this section of New Ferry free from congestion, particularly during busy shopping hours.
Addressing Traffic Abuse and Safety Concerns
The proposal to use cameras for enforcement follows increasing reports and observations by council and police officers that the access restrictions in New Ferry are being regularly abused and ignored.
This has caused significant frustration and road safety issues for pedestrians wishing to shop safely in the centre.
By implementing ANPR technology, the authority aims to ensure the pedestrianised zone remains a protected space, as originally intended.
However, before any technology is introduced, the council is giving residents and business owners the opportunity to share their views on the plan.
Public Consultation Now Open
A period of public consultation is now underway.
Residents can review the details of the proposed camera installation and provide feedback online via the council’s Have Your Say platform.
The consultation includes a Frequently Asked Questions section for those seeking more details on how the technology will operate.
Members of the public are encouraged to click ‘Take Survey’ to share whether they support or object to the introduction of cameras at the entrance to Bebington Road.
This feedback will be vital in determining how the council proceeds with enforcement measures in the heart of New Ferry.
