TfL will begin a clampdown on motorists using cycle lanes from today.

Starting today (June 27) Transport For London (TfL) will begin using new powers to fine cars caught in marked cycle lanes and tracks.

Police could already fine motorists who crossed the white lines of cycle lanes but this power has now been extended to TfL. 

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TfL says that road danger currently prevents people from cycling more and reducing noncompliance with cycle lanes will help improve the safety and confidence of cyclists.

TfL's director of compliance, policing, operations and security, Siwan Hayward, said: "Protecting designated space for cyclists is essential in keeping them safe and improving confidence to cycle.

“We want to ensure a green and sustainable future for London, and to do this we must continue to make walking and cycling round our city safe and accessible to all Londoners."

Watford Observer: Image of cyclists (PA)Image of cyclists (PA)

TfL will be able to fine motorists who enter cycle lanes and cycle tracks in the same way that it currently does for bus lanes and yellow box junctions.

These powers were introduced at the same time as wider national changes giving local authorities in England outside of London the powers to enforce moving traffic contraventions.

London Cycling Campaign development officer Tom Bogdanowicz said: "Vehicles driving in cycle lanes put cyclists in danger and can deter people from choosing to cycle.

“That's why it's crucial that investment in cycling provision is backed up with camera enforcement, just as camera enforcement is used to keep bus lanes clear.”

Watford Observer: Image of cyclist (PA)Image of cyclist (PA)

Initially, TfL will use existing CCTV cameras to enforce contraventions in cycle lanes and cycle tracks at key locations across its road network.

London's Walking and Cycling Commissioner Will Norman said: "Making London's streets safer is our top priority.

“These new enforcement powers will help improve cyclist's confidence when getting around the capital.

"Enabling more Londoners to walk and cycle continues to be at the heart of the Mayor's vision to create a healthier, cleaner and more sustainable London for everyone - these new powers will play an important role in that."