Cameras can fine drivers illegally using Watford High Street

From February, enforcement cameras will be installed in High Street at the junction with King Street as part of an 18 month trial.

Only drivers of buses, taxis, and loading vehicles, along with cyclists, will be able to use the section of road towards Market Street - which is already the case.

But to deter banned vehicles, Watford Borough Council and Hertfordshire County Council will be putting in cameras - and anyone caught breaking the rules faces a penalty charge notice.

Watford High Street at the junction with King Street, Pictured when social distancing measures were in place. This is restricted to buses, taxis, loading vehicles, and bikes only

The council says it has got powers to put in enforcement cameras on routes that are already restricted to most vehicles. Legislation is set to be introduced later this year giving councils outside of London powers to enforce traffic contraventions via camera in other streets, such as Woodmere Avenue in Watford.

Related: Cameras set to be trialled in Woodmere Avenue to replace width restriction

The introduction of cameras in the high street at the new 'bus gate' will bring "significant benefits" and make Watford a more "pedestrian-friendly" town.

Watford mayor Peter Taylor added: "The High Street has been off limits to general traffic for over 12 years. During Covid, the roadway was blocked off to manage pedestrian issues and marshals made sure that only permitted vehicles had access.

"The reduction in traffic has made the town centre a safer, less polluted and healthier environment. We want to keep these benefits and build on them to develop a more attractive and healthy town centre."

Watford High Street near the junction with King Street. Credit: Simon Jacobs/Watford Borough Council

From early February, new signage and road markings will signal the changes in operation at the entrance to the High Street from King Street.

Access from the other end of High Street is already restricted by automatic bollards in Clarendon Road outside Watford Palace Theatre.

Bollards in Clarendon Road

Meanwhile, the three full-time and six part-time blue badge bays on the High Street that have been out of action for the past two years will remain closed under the new arrangements but space is available for up to 30 blue badge holders on George Street, Church Street and King Street.

Plans are also being developed to provide up to 20 more spaces in the same area by converting some taxi bays and other unused space, and making some improvements to help access and increase the sense of safety on routes to the High Street.

The new scheme will be trialled for up to 18 months, with residents, businesses and disabled drivers being asked to provide their feedback during the first 6 months. This will enable tweaks and changes to be made to the scheme where necessary.