Up to 600 vehicles a day use Market Jew Street in Penzance during restricted hours despite a ban in place since 2020. Cornwall Council responds by installing cameras to enforce the existing vehicle ban from 28 September.
Camera enforcement starts 28 September
Market Jew Street prohibits cars and delivery vehicles from 11am to 4pm. This restriction aims to increase space for pedestrians and cyclists in the town centre. Cornwall Council now introduces automatic number plate recognition cameras at both ends of the street to monitor compliance.
The cameras also enforce a no-right-turn at Adelaide Street and a no-entry restriction at Market Place. The system captures violations, which trained officers review before issuing penalty charge notices to registered keepers.
Automated reviews, clear penalties
Penalties for moving traffic contraventions stand at £70, reducing to £35 if paid within 21 days. Cornwall Council emphasises the scheme is designed to improve compliance, not to generate revenue. Exemptions include licensed Hackney Carriage taxis entering from Albert Street and local buses.
Blue Badge holders do not have an exemption unless already parked in a designated disabled bay before 11am, allowing departure without penalty.
Enforcement without physical change
No physical alterations to Market Jew Street accompany the new enforcement. The carriageway or junctions remain as before. The key change lies in shifting from signed restrictions alone to backed enforcement through cameras.
This follows Cornwall Council receiving legal powers in December 2025 to enforce moving traffic contraventions previously the police's domain.
Compliance critical for effective restrictions
Restrictions only meet their objectives if road users comply. Where compliance falls short, authorities must decide on enforcement measures. Penzance exemplifies this approach by adopting cameras to uphold long-standing restrictions.
This approach aligns with broader highway management trends as councils take on expanded enforcement responsibilities.
Message for drivers
The vehicle ban on Market Jew Street remains unchanged in scope. The significant shift comes with automated enforcement starting 28 September. Drivers entering during restricted hours risk penalty charge notices issued via camera evidence.
The council's step illustrates how technology can support traffic management goals without physical highway works.
