Ashburton tests automated cameras to crack down on parking violations
Ashburton District Council has initiated a trial of an automated license plate recognition system in Ashburton. The trial, commencing this week, aims to enhance parking compliance and is scheduled to run until Christmas, costing $2000 monthly and covered by existing budgets.
The system, akin to one employed in Hastings District Council, utilizes cameras that can be detached and used on a council fleet car. This allows the vehicle to remain functional for other staff when not engaged in the trial. The initial phase of the trial will compare data collected by the plate recognition system with that gathered by the council's traffic wardens.
Post-trial, a report will be submitted to councillors for consideration on implementing the technology permanently. If successful, a live trial with tickets generated by the new system is slated for next year.
The trial has sparked public backlash, with concerns raised about potential revenue generation, increased congestion, and job losses for parking officers. Despite these apprehensions, the council is proceeding with the trial to assess the system's efficacy in improving parking compliance.
