For the purpose of carrying out the experimental control of traffic, the Department may, subject to this Article, make and implement schemes ( “experimental traffic control schemes”).

An experimental traffic control scheme may make the like provision as may be made by a traffic regulation order.

Where it appears to the Department that it is essential in the interests of the expeditious, convenient and safe movement of traffic or for preserving or improving the amenities of the area through which any road affected by an experimental traffic control scheme runs, the Department may, after giving such public notice as it considers appropriate, modify or suspend an experimental traffic control scheme.

Subject to paragraph (5), an experimental traffic control scheme shall, unless previously revoked, cease to be in force on the expiration of six months from the date on which it came into force.

Subject to paragraph (6), where an experimental traffic control scheme has not ceased to be in force, the Department may direct that the scheme shall continue in force for a further period not exceeding six months from the date when it would otherwise cease to be in force.

Subject to paragraph (7), nothing in paragraph (5) shall authorise the continuance in force of an experimental traffic control scheme for a period exceeding 18 months from the date when it first came into force.

Paragraph (6) shall not apply in relation to an experimental traffic control scheme where the Department proposes to make a traffic regulation order the sole effect of which is to reproduce and continue indefinitely the provisions of the scheme but, in consequence of causing a public inquiry to be held under paragraph 4 of Schedule 1, the Department is unable to make the traffic regulation order so that it comes into operation before the scheme ceases to be in force.

The Department may direct (in an experimental traffic control scheme or otherwise) that while the scheme is in force, any provision previously made by or under an enactment, being a provision that could have been made by the scheme, is suspended or modified to such extent, and in such manner as the Department considers necessary in consequence of the scheme.

Any person who contravenes an experimental traffic control scheme is guilty of an offence.

Schedule 2 (which makes further provision in relation to experimental traffic control schemes) shall have effect.