Motorists in South Cambridgeshire face new fines for dangerous driving as authorities crack down on disruptive behavior.
The South Cambridgeshire District Council has implemented a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) for Milton Park and Ride, following overwhelming public support for stricter measures. This decision comes after residents endured two years of disturbances from vehicles performing dangerous stunts and racing activities, including burnouts, skidding maneuvers, and excessive speeding.
The PSPO introduces enforceable rules with financial penalties for those who breach them, targeting dangerous driving practices that have plagued the local community. As part of the measures, Automatic Number Plate Recognition technology has been installed to monitor vehicles and issue fines without the need for personnel presence.
The need for such rules arose from resident complaints about noise, with some comparing the noise levels to a motor racing circuit. Loud music from vehicles, particularly during evening and late-night hours, added to the disruption. Reports also highlighted instances of intimidating and abusive conduct from drivers engaging in these activities.
The council explained that anti-social activities have occurred regularly, with weekends and summer months seeing peak cases when the disruption continued past midnight. The consultation revealed the severe impact on residents' quality of life, with many describing sleepless nights and stress caused by the disturbances.
One resident commented, 'Some evenings it sounds like the starting grid at Brands Hatch,' while another reported that their family 'frequently listens to acceleration anticipating the sound of a crash.' Parents expressed particular concern about their children's welfare, with one respondent stating, 'In summer, children cannot sleep on school nights.'
The council warned of spikes in anti-social behavior from drivers during the summer and late evenings, emphasizing the need for action to ensure the Milton Park and Ride is a safe and welcoming space for everyone.
Local councillor Anna Bradnam praised the order's deterrent potential, stating, 'It gives the ability to issue a fixed penalty on the first offense, which will nip bad behavior in the bud and act as a short, sharp shock for antisocial drivers.'
The authority has also streamlined future implementations of similar orders at other park and ride locations, delegating decision-making powers to council officers working alongside the Lead Cabinet Member for Environment.
