Hertfordshire drivers face a greater risk of being fined if they are caught flouting rules such as waiting in yellow box junctions or ignoring a one-way sign.

The county council says it is applying for new legal powers to issue penalty charge notices to motorists who ignore highway restrictions.

The powers will allow the council to install cameras that use automatic number plate technology - rather than rely on police being in the area - to clamp down on moving traffic contraventions.

The council says it is applying for legal powers to help improve safety and tackle congestion.

Trials will take place at two junctions in Bishop’s Stortford, while designs are being drawn up for a camera-enforced weight restriction in Woodmere Avenue in Watford to replace the existing controversial width restriction, as well as the replacement of a rising bollard in Albatross Way in Hatfield.

This Is Local London: The new width restriction in Woodmere Avenue, although it is set to be removed in the near future and replaced by a camera-enforced weight restriction. Image: Stephen Danzig The new width restriction in Woodmere Avenue, although it is set to be removed in the near future and replaced by a camera-enforced weight restriction. Image: Stephen Danzig (Image: Stephen Danzig)

All of the trial sites could be operational by the end of 2023 and then more sites could follow.

Moving traffic camera enforcement in Hertfordshire needs to be given the green light by the Department for Transport.

Until recently, only London councils have had the powers Hertfordshire is now seeking.

Phil Bibby, council executive member for highways and transport at Hertfordshire County Council, said: “These new powers should allow residents to use a road network which is safer and less congested.

“Vehicles blocking box junctions can cause congestion and frustration, and we want to hear what local people think about introducing camera enforcement to help the traffic flow more smoothly. The initial locations are ones where motorists currently ignore road signage or where large vehicles travel down residential streets."

He added: “To deliver sustainable and responsible growth in our county, we need to ensure we maintain an infrastructure that meets the needs of our growing communities.”

The council has launched a public consultation seeking views on its trialled locations in Bishop’s Stortford, which if green lighted, will pave the way for camera enforcement in other unidentified areas of Hertfordshire.

Visit www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/cameraenforcement for more information.