Drones to Police Cycle Lanes

Published on: 1 Apr, 2024
Updated on: 2 Apr, 2024

Car parked in a cycle lane on Aldershot Road, Guildford

A scheme to enforce fines on motorists who park in cycle lanes is being considered by the council, according to a regional bicycle organisation United Bike User Group Association.

According to sources within the association, the council is considering using drones, fitted with high-resolution cameras, to police the lanes which would obviate the need for further costly deployment of CCTV.

One UBUGA source said: “It seems to me a very good solution. Cars parking in cycle lanes are a real nuisance and safety hazard but drivers just don’t care because no one is policing it. Drones, which are much cheaper these days, could simply take photographic evidence which could be processed in the same way as bus lane infringements caught on camera.”

Drone fitted with high-resolution camera

But one motorist, Mel Drew, who has a cycle lane on the road directly outside his house, said: “What! I don’t believe it! Where am I meant to park? I have friends who cycle but they seem to want it all their way.”

In 2020 local authorities in England were given powers to fine drivers who park or load illegally in cycle lanes and put cyclists at risk.

Councils have always denied that raising such fines is primarily a revenue-boosting exercise but the income stream does help cash-strapped local authorities balance the books.

The Highway Code (Rule 140) states: “You MUST NOT drive or park in a cycle lane marked by a solid white line during its times of operation. Do not drive or park in a cycle lane marked by a broken white line unless it is unavoidable.”

No local authority spokesperson was available to comment.

Responses to Drones to Police Cycle Lanes

Angela Richardson Reply

April 1, 2024 at 7:54 am

I’ve come to look forward to the April 1st article, having fallen hook, line and sinker for it a few years ago.

Fantastic acronym!
Harry Eve Reply

April 1, 2024 at 9:00 am

Safety concerns have been raised about this proposal. It is believed that miniaturised ground to air drone-seeking missiles are becoming available on the dark web. Although originally intended for use by security services to protect airports, and to protect privacy on private land, there are concerns that drivers will start using them to protect their entitlement to do as they as please wherever they please.
Adam Aaronson Reply

April 1, 2024 at 9:46 am

Drones? don’t you mean Dragons?

Nice one!
Jenny Grove (Mrs) Reply

April 1, 2024 at 9:58 am

…and pigs might fly!

Editor’s response: There is no mention of any police involvement in the proposed scheme.
Bibhas neogi Reply

April 1, 2024 at 10:57 am

Victor Meldrew? Oh! the date!
Tom Ansty Reply

April 8, 2024 at 12:20 pm

Depressing how a sensible measure to promote sustainable transport, cycling safety, and motorists obeying the law is now demoted to a literal joke.
John Lomas Reply

April 8, 2024 at 5:40 pm

It might have been better to find one on a solid white line to make the point.

Does Tom Ansty actually believe this could have been a feasible idea?