Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984

Part I E+W+S General Provisions for Traffic Regulation

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C1 Pt. 1 applied (with modifications) (S.) (19.4.2007) by Edinburgh Airport Rail Link Act 2007 (asp. 16), s. 38 (with ss. 52, 60)

Outside Greater London E+W+S

1 Traffic regulation orders outside Greater London. E+W+S

(1) [F1 The traffic authority for a road outside Greater London may make an order under this section (referred to in this Act as a “traffic regulation order ”) in respect of the road] where it appears to the authority making the order that it is expedient to make it—

(a) for avoiding danger to persons or other traffic using the road or any other road or for preventing the likelihood of any such danger arising, or

(b) for preventing damage to the road or to any building on or near the road, or

(c) for facilitating the passage on the road or any other road of any class of traffic (including pedestrians), or

(d) for preventing the use of the road by vehicular traffic of a kind which, or its use by vehicular traffic in a manner which, is unsuitable having regard to the existing character of the road or adjoining property, or

(e) (without prejudice to the generality of paragraph (d) above) for preserving the character of the road in a case where it is specially suitable for use by persons on horseback or on foot, or

(f) for preserving or improving the amenities of the area through which the road runs [F2 or.

(g) for any of the purposes specified in paragraphs (a) to (c) of subsection (1) of section 87 of the Environment Act 1995 (air quality).]

F3 (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

[F4 (3) A traffic regulation order made by a local traffic authority may, with the consent of the Secretary of State, extend to a road in relation to which he is the traffic authority if the order forms part of a scheme of general traffic control relating to roads of which at least one has a junction with the length of road in question.]

F5 (4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F5 (5) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F1 Words in s. 1(1) substituted (1.11.1991) by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (c. 22, SIF 59, 108), s. 168(1), Sch. 8 para. 17(2); which substitution is in force for Scotland only by S.I. 1991/2286, art. 2(2), Sch. 2. and for England and Wales only by S.I. 1991/2288, art. 3, Sch.

F2 S. 1(1)(g) and preceding word “or " inserted (1.2.1996) by 1995 c. 25, s. 120(1), Sch. 22, para. 36(1)(with ss. 7(6), 115, 117); S.I. 1996/186, art. 2

F3 S. 1(2) repealed (1.11.1991) by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (c. 22, SIF 59, 108), s. 168(1)(2), Sch. 8 para. 17(3), Sch. 9; which repeal is in force for Scotland only by S.I. 1991/2286, art. 2(2), Sch. 2. and for England and Wales only by S.I. 1991/2288, art. 3, Sch.

F4 S. 1(3) substituted (1.11.1991) by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (c. 22, SIF 59, 108), s. 168(1), Sch. 8 para. 17(4); which substitution is in force for Scotland only by S.I. 1991/2286, art. 2(2), Sch. 2. and for England and Wales only by S.I. 1991/2288, art. 3, Sch.

F5 S. 1(4)(5) repealed(1.11.1991) by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (c. 22, SIF 59, 108) s. 168(1)(2), Sch. 8 para. 17(5), Sch. 9; which repeal is in force for Scotland only by S.I. 1991/2286, art. 2(2), Sch. 2. and for England and Wales by S.I. 1991/2288, art. 3, Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C2 S. 1 restricted by Local Government Act 1985 (c. 51, SIF 81:1), ss. 1, 2, 8(2), Sch. 5 para. 6(3)

C3 S. 1 restricted by Local Government Act 1985 (c. 51, SIF 81:1), s. 8(2), Sch. 5 para. 12

S. 1 restricted (S.)(4.1.1995) by 1994 c. 39, ss. 7(2), 44(2); S.I. 1994/2850, art. 3(a), Sch. 2

C4 S. 1 applied (with modifications)(6.3.1992) by Aberdeen Harbour Order Confirmation Act 1992 (c. ii), s. 1, Sch. s. 3(2).

C5 S. 1 modified (1.7.1992) by S.I. 1992/1217, reg. 3(1)(a) (with reg. 11)

S. 1 modified (1.7.1992) by S.I. 1992/1217, reg. 5 (with reg. 11).

2 What a traffic regulation order may provide. E+W+S

(1) [F6 A traffic regulation order may make] any provision prohibiting, restricting or regulating the use of a road, or of any part of the width of a road, by vehicular traffic, or by vehicular traffic of any class specified in the order,—

(a) either generally or subject to such exceptions as may be specified in the order or determined in a manner provided for by it, and

(b) subject to such exceptions as may be so specified or determined, either at all times or at times, on days or during periods so specified.

(2) [F7 The provision that may be made by a traffic regulation order] includes any provision—

(a) requiring vehicular traffic, or vehicular traffic of any class specified in the order, to proceed in a specified direction or prohibiting its so proceeding;

(b) specifying the part of the carriageway to be used by such traffic proceeding in a specified direction;

(c) prohibiting or restricting the waiting of vehicles or the loading and unloading of vehicles;

(d) prohibiting the use of roads by through traffic; or

(e) prohibiting or restricting overtaking.

(3) The provision that may be made by a traffic regulation order also includes provision prohibiting, restricting or regulating the use of a road, or of any part of the width of a road, by, or by any specified class of, pedestrians—

(a) either generally or subject to exceptions specified in the order, and

(b) either at all times or at times, on days or during periods so specified.

(4) [F8 A local traffic authority may include] in a traffic regulation order any such provision—

(a) specifying through routes for heavy commercial vehicles, or

(b) prohibiting or restricting the use of heavy commercial vehicles (except in such cases, if any, as may be specified in the order) in such zones or on such roads as may be so specified,

as they consider expedient for preserving or improving the amenities of their area or of some part or parts of their area.

(5) Nothing in subsection (4) above shall be construed as limiting the scope of any power or duty to control vehicles conferred or imposed on any local authority or the Secretary of State otherwise than by virtue of that subsection.

Textual Amendments

F6 Words in s. 2(1) substituted (1.11.1991) by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (c. 22, SIF 59, 108) s. 168(1), Sch. 8 para. 18(2); which substitution is in force for Scotland only by S.I. 1991/2286, art. 2(2), Sch. 2. and for England and Wales only by S.I. 1991/2288, art. 3,Sch.

F7 Words in s. 2(2) substituted (1.11.1991) by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (c. 22, SIF 59, 108) s. 168(1), Sch. 8 para. 18(3); which substitution is in force for Scotland only by S.I. 1991/2286, art. 2(2), Sch. 2. and for England and Wales only by S.I. 1991/2288, art. 3,Sch.

F8 Words in s. 2(4) substituted (1.11.1991) by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (c. 22, SIF 59, 108) s. 168(1), Sch. 8 para. 18(4); which substitution is in force for Scotland only by S.I. 1991/2286, art. 2(2), Sch.2. and for England and Wales only by S.I. 1991/2288, art. 3,Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C6 S. 2 applied (with modifications)(6.3.1992) by Aberdeen Harbour Order Confirmation Act 1992 (c. ii), s. 1, Sch. s. 3(2).

C7 Ss. 1, 2, 4: power to make orders extended (S.) (1.4.2002) by The Forth Estuary Transport Authority Order 2002 (S.S.I. 2002/178), art. 9

S. 2: functions made exercisable concurrently (S) (1.11.2006) by The Transfer of Functions to the Shetland Transport Partnership Order 2006 (S.S.I. 2006/527), art. 4, Sch. 2

S. 2: functions made exercisable concurrently (S) (7.11.2006) by The Transfer of Functions to the South West of Scotland Transport Partnership Order 2006 (S.S.I 2006/538), art. 4, Sch. 2

3 Restrictions on traffic regulation orders. E+W+S

(1) F9 . . . a traffic regulation order shall not be made with respect to any road which would have the effect—

(a) of preventing at any time access for pedestrians, or

(b) of preventing for more than 8 hours in any period of 24 hours access for vehicles of any class,

to any premises situated on or adjacent to the road, or to any other premises accessible for pedestrians, or (as the case may be) for vehicles of that class, from, and only from, the road.

(2) Subsection (1) above, so far as it relates to vehicles, shall not have effect in so far as the authority making the order are satisfied, and it is stated in the order that they are satisfied, that—

(a) for avoiding danger to persons or other traffic using the road to which the order relates or any other road, or

(b) for preventing the likelihood of any such danger arising, or

(c) for preventing damage to the road or buildings on or near it, or

(d) for facilitating the passage of vehicular traffic on the road, or

(e) for preserving or improving the amentities of an area by prohibiting or restricting the use on a road or roads in that area of heavy commercial vehicles,

it is requisite that subsection (1) above should not apply to the order.

(3) Provision for regulating the speed of vehicles on roads shall not be made by a traffic regulation order.

F10 (4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F9 Words in s. 3(1) repealed (1.11.1991) by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (c. 22, SIF 59, 108), s. 168(1)(2), Sch. 8 para. 19, Sch. 9; S.I. 1991/2286, art. 2(2), Sch. 2; S.I. 1991/2288, art. 3, Sch.

F10 S. 3(4) repealed by Transport Act 1985 (c. 67, SIF 126), s. 139(3), Sch. 8

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C8 S. 3 applied (with modifications) (6.3.1992) by Aberdeen Harbour Order Confirmation Act 1992 (c. ii), ss. 1, 3(2), Sch.

C9 S. 3: functions made exercisable concurrently (S.) (1.11.2006) by The Transfer of Functions to the Shetland Transport Partnership Order 2006 (S.S.I. 2006/527), art.4, Sch. 2

S. 3: functions made exercisable concurrently (S.) (7.11.2006) by The Transfer of Functions to the South West of Scotland Transport Partnership Order 2006 (S.S.I 2006/538), art. 4, {Sch. 2}

C10 S. 3(1) excluded (E.W.) (temp. from 5.10.2009) by London Olympic Games and Paralympic Games Act 2006 (c. 12), ss. 14(6), 40(2)(6), 41(3); S.I. 2009/2577, art. 2

4 Provisions supplementary to ss. 2 and 3. E+W+S

(1) A traffic regulation order may make provision for identifying any part of any road to which, or any time at which or period during which, any provision contained in the order is for the time being to apply by means of a traffic sign of a type or character specified in the order (being a type prescribed or character authorised under section 64 of this Act) and for the time being lawfully in place; and for the purposes of any such order so made any such traffic sign placed on and near a road shall be deemed to be lawfully in place unless the contrary is proved.

(2) A traffic regulation order which imposes any restriction on the use by vehicles of a road, or the waiting of vehicles in a road, may include provision with respect to the issue and display of certificates or other means of identification of vehicles which are excepted from the restriction, whether generally or in particular circumstances or at particular times.

(3) A traffic regulation order may also include provision with respect to the issue, display and operation of devices F11 . . . for indicating the time at which a vehicle arrived at, and the time at which it ought to leave, any place in a road in which waiting is restricted by the order, or one or other of those times, and for treating the indications given by any such device as evidence of such facts and for such purposes as may be prescribed by the order.

Textual Amendments

F11 Words in s. 4(3) repealed (13.9.1996) by S.I. 1996/1553, art. 2(1), Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C11 S. 4 applied (with modifications)(6.3.1992) by Aberdeen Harbour Order Confirmation Act 1992 (c. ii), s. 1, Sch. s. 3(2).

C12 Ss. 1, 2, 4: power to make orders extended (S.) (1.4.2002) by The Forth Estuary Transport Authority Order 2002 (S.S.I. 2002/178), art. 9

S. 4 functions made exercisable concurrently (S) (1.11.2006) by The Transfer of Functions to the Shetland transport Partnership Order 2006 (S.S.I. 2006/527), art. 4, Sch. 2

S. 4 functions made exercisable concurrently (S) (7.11.2006) by The Transfer of Functions to the South West of Scotland Transport Partnership Order 2006 (S.S.I 2006/538), art. 4, {Sch. 2}

5 Contravention of traffic regulation order. E+W+S

(1) A person who contravenes a traffic regulation order, or who uses a vehicle, or causes or permits a vehicle to be used in contravention of a traffic regulation order, shall be guilty of an offence.

F12 (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F12 S. 5(2) repealed (1.11.1991) by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (c. 22, SIF 59, 108), s. 168(1)(2), Sch. 8 para. 20, Sch.9; which repeal is in force for Scotland only by S.I. 1991/2286, art. 2(2), Sch.2. and for England and Wales by S.I. 1991/2288, art. 3,Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C13 S. 5 excluded (temp) ((1.10.1991) (E.W.) (16.6.1997) (S.)) by Road Traffic Act 1991 (c. 40, SIF 107:1), ss. 43(1), 84(1), Sch. 3 para. 2(4)(a); S.I. 1991/2054, art. 3; S.I. 1997/1580, art. 2

C14 S. 5 applied (with modifications)(6.3.1992) by Aberdeen Harbour Order Confirmation Act 1992 (c. ii), s. 1, Sch. s. 3(2).

In Greater London E+W+S

6 Orders similar to traffic regulation orders. E+W+S

(1) [F13 The traffic authority for a road in Greater London may make an order under this section for controlling or regulating vehicular and other traffic (including pedestrians).Provision may, in particular, be made—]—

(a) for any of the purposes, or with respect to any of the matters, mentioned in Schedule 1 to this Act, and

(b) for any other purpose which is a purpose mentioned in any of paragraphs [F14 (a) to (g)] of section 1(1) of this Act.

[F15 (2) In the case of a road for which the Secretary of State is the traffic authority, the power to make an order under this section is also exercisable, with his consent, by the local traffic authority.]

(3) Any order under this section may be made so as to apply—

[F16 (a) to the whole area of a local authority, or to particular parts of that area, or to particular places or streets or parts of streets in that area;]

(b) throughout the day, or during particular periods;

(c) on special occasions only, or at special times only;

(d) to traffic of any class;

(e) subject to such exceptions as may be specified in the order or determined in a manner provided for by it.

[F17 (4) Where, by a notice published in the prescribed manner by the highway authority, a date has been or is declared to be the date on which a part of a special road is open for use as a special road, this section shall not apply in relation to that part of that road or (if the date so declared is a date after the commencement of this Act) shall not apply in relation to it on or after that date.]

(5) No order under this section shall contain any provision for regulating the speed of vehicles on roads.

(6) In this section, in section 7 of this Act and in Schedule 1 to this Act “street ” includes any highway, any bridge carrying a highway and any lane, mews, footway, square, court, alley or passage whether a thoroughfare or not; [F18 and in subsection (4) above “the prescribed manner ” means the manner prescribed by regulations made by the Secretary of State which were or are in force at the time of publication of the notice.]

Textual Amendments

F13 Words in s. 6(1) substituted (1.11.1991) by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (c. 22, SIF 59, 108) s. 168(1), Sch. 8 para. 21(2); which substitution is in force for Scotland only by S.I. 1991/2286, art. 2(2), Sch. 2 and for England and Wales only by S.I. 1991/2288, art. 3, Sch.

F14 Words in s. 6(1)(b) substituted (1.2.1996) by 1995 c. 25, s. 120(1), Sch. 22 para. 36(2)(with ss. 7(6), 115, 117); S.I. 1996/186, art. 2

F15 S. 6(2) substituted (1.11.1991) by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (c. 22, SIF 59, 108) s. 168(1), Sch. 8 para. 21(3); which substitution is in force for Scotland only by S.I. 1991/2286, art. 2(2), Sch. 2 and for England and Wales only by S.I. 1991/2288, art. 3, Sch.

F16 S. 6(3)(a) substituted by Local Government Act 1985 (c. 51, SIF 81:1), ss. 1, 2, 8(1), Sch. 5 para. 4(3)(b)

F17 S. 6(4) repealed (1.11.1991) by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (c. 22, SIF 59, 108) s. 168(1)(2), Sch. 8 para. 21(4), Sch. 9; which repeal is in force for Scotland only by S.I. 1991/2286, art. 2(2), Sch. 2 relating to Sch. 8 and for England and Wales only by S.I. 1991/2288, art. 3, Sch.

F18 Words in s. 6(6) repealed (1.11.1991) by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (c. 22, SIF 59, 108) s. 168(1)(2), Sch. 8 para. 21(5), Sch. 9; which repeal is in force for Scotland only by S.I. 1991/2286, art. 2(2), Sch. 2 relating to Sch. 8 and for England and Wales only by S.I. 1991/2288, art. 3, Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C15 S. 6 restricted by Local Government Act 1985 (c. 51, SIF 81:1), ss. 1, 2, 8(2), Sch. 5 para. 6(3)

C16 S. 6 restricted by Local Government Act 1985 (c. 51, SIF 81:1), s. 8(2), Sch. 5 para. 12

C17 S. 6 modified (1.7.1992) by S.I. 1992/1217, reg. 3(1)(b) (with reg. 11)

S. 6 modified (1.7.1992) by S.I. 1992/1217, reg. 5 (with reg. 11).

S. 6 excluded (23.6.1999) by S.I. 1999/1736, art. 8(1)(2)(a)

7 Supplementary provisions as to orders under s. 6. E+W+S

(1) Any order under section 6 of this Act may make provision for identifying any part of any road to which, or any time at which or period during which, any provision contained in the order is for the time being to apply by means of a traffic sign of a type or character specified in the order (being a type prescribed or character authorised under section 64 of this Act) and for the time being lawfully in place; and, for the purposes of any order so made, any such traffic sign placed on or near a street shall be deemed to be lawfully in place unless the contrary is proved.

(2) Any such order which imposes any restriction on the use by vehicles of streets in Greater London, or the waiting of vehicles in such streets, may include provision with respect to the issue and display of certificates or other means of identification of vehicles which are excepted from the restriction, whether generally or in particular circumstances or at particular times.

(3) Any such order may also include provision with respect to the issue, display and operation of devices F19 . . . for indicating the time at which a vehicle arrived at, and the time at which it ought to leave, any place in a street in which waiting is restricted by the order, or one or other of those times, and for treating the indications given by any such device as evidence of such facts and for such purposes as may be prescribed by the order.

(4) Any such order may provide for the suspension or modification, so long as the order remains in force, of any provisions of any Acts (whether public general or local or private, and including provisions contained in this Act), byelaws or regulations dealing with the same subject matter as the order, or of any Acts conferring power to make byelaws or regulations dealing with the same subject matter, so far as such provisions apply to any place or street to which the order applies.

(5) No appeal shall lie to the Secretary of State from the [F20 traffic commissioner for the Metropolitan Traffic Area under section 42 of the Transport Act 1985 in the case of a decision of his with respect to a London local service licence if and so far as he certifies] that the decision was necessary to secure conformity with any order in force under section 6 of this Act which prescribes—

(a) the routes to be followed, or streets which are not to be used, by vehicles affected by the decision, or

(b) the places in streets where such vehicles may or may not wait, or

(c) the stopping places for such vehicles.

(6) Before [F21 the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions] makes any order under section 6 of this Act which will impose new or additional duties on the police, he shall consult the [F22 the Commissioner of Police for any police area in which is situated any road or part of a road to which the order is to relate].

(7) The reference in subsection (5) above to the Metropolitan Traffic Area shall be construed as if it were contained in the M1 Public Passenger Vehicles Act 1981.

Textual Amendments

F19 Words in s. 7(3) repealed (13.9.1996) by S.I. 1996/1553, art. 2(1), Sch.6

F20 Words substituted by Transport Act 1985 (c. 67, SIF 126), s. 1(3), Sch. 1 para. 15(2)

F21 Words in s. 7(6) substituted (26.1.1998) by S.I. 1997/2791, art. 6(1), Sch. para. 7

F22 Words in s. 7(6) substituted (1.10.1991) by Road Traffic Act 1991 (c. 40, SIF 107:1), s. 81, Sch. 7, para. 3 (with s. 79(1)); S.I. 1991/2054, art. 3, Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C18 S. 7 excluded (23.6.1999) by S.I. 1999/1736, art. 8(1)(2)(a)

Marginal Citations

M1 1981 c. 14(107:1).

8 Contravention of order under s. 6. E+W+S

(1) Any person who acts in contravention of, or fails to comply with, an order under section 6 of this Act shall be guilty of an offence.

[F23 (1A) Subsection (1) above does not apply in relation to any order under section 6 of this Act so far as it designates any parking places.]

F24 (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F23 S. 8(1A) inserted (5.7.1993, 4.10.1993, 6.12.1993, 31.1.1994, 5.4.1994 and 4.7.1994 respectively for specified London boroughs and otherwise prosp.) by Road Traffic Act 1991 (c. 40, SIF 107:1), s. 65(2) (with s. 79(1)); S.I. 1993/1461, art. 3(1)(b); S.I. 1993/2229, art. 3(b); S.I. 1993/2803, art. 2(b); S.I. 1993/3238, art. 2(b); S.I. 1994/81, art. 3(b); S.I. 1994/1482, art. 2(a); S.I. 1994/1484, art. 2(a), Sch.

F24 S. 8(2) repealed (1.11.1991) by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (c. 22, SIF 59, 108) s. 168(1)(2), Sch. 8 para. 22, Sch. 9; which repeal is in force for Scotland only by S.I. 1991/2286, art. 2(2), Sch.2 relating to Sch. 8 and for England and Wales only by S.I. 1991/2288, art. 3,Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C19 S. 8 excluded (temp.) (1.10.1991) by Road Traffic Act 1991 (c. 40, SIF 107:1), s. 76(3)(a) (with s. 79(1)); S.I. 1991/2054, art. 3, Sch.

S. 8 excluded (23.6.1999) by S.I. 1999/1736, art. 8(1)(2)(a)

C20 S. 8 applied (with modifications) (30.12.2003) by London Local Authorities and Transport for London Act 2003 (c. iii), s. 7(2)

Experimental traffic schemes E+W+S

9 Experimental traffic orders. E+W+S

[F25 (1) The traffic authority for a road may, for the purposes of carrying out an experimental scheme of traffic control, make an order under this section (referred to in this Act as an “experimental traffic order ”) making any such provision—

(a) as respects a road outside Greater London, as may be made by a traffic regulation order;

(b) as respects a road in Greater London, as may be made by an order under section 6, 45, 46, 49, [F26 or 83(2) or by virtue of section 84(1)(a)]] of this Act.

[F27 (2) An experimental traffic order made by a local traffic authority outside Greater London may, with the consent of the Secretary of State, extend to a road in relation to which he is the traffic authority if the order forms part of a scheme of general traffic control relating to roads of which at least one has a junction with the length of road in question.

(2A) In the case of a road in Greater London for which the Secretary of State is the traffic authority, the power to make an order under this section is also exercisable, with his consent, by the local traffic authority.]

(3) An experimental traffic order shall not continue in force for longer than 18 months.

(4) Subject to Parts I to III of Schedule 9 of this Act, where—

(a) an experimental traffic order has been made for a period of less than 18 months, and

(b) the order has not ceased to be in force,

the authority by whom the order was made may from time to time by order direct that it shall continue in force for a further period ending not later than 18 months after it first came into force.

(5) Where an experimental traffic order made by [F28 a London borough council or the Common Council of the City of London] has not ceased to be in force, and the Secretary of State is satisfied that—

(a) an order which [F28 the council] propose to make under any of the provisions of this Act specified in subsection (1)(b) above has the sole effect of reproducing and continuing in force indefinitely the provisions of the experimental traffic order (whether or not that order has been varied, or has been modified or suspended under section 10(2) of this Act), and

(b) in consequence of [F28 the council] causing a public inquiry to be held into the order so proposed to be made, they would be unable to make it so that it would come into operation before the experimental traffic order ceases to be in force,

the Secretary of State may, at the request of [F28 the council], from time to time direct that the experimental traffic order shall continue in force for a further period not exceeding 6 months from the date when it would otherwise cease to be in force.

[F29 (5A) So much of section 4(1) or 7(1) of this Act as provides for a presumption that a traffic sign is lawfully placed shall apply for the purposes of an order under this section making any such provision as is referred to in that subsection.]

(6) In this section and section 10 of this Act “road ”, in relation to Greater London, includes any street as defined by section 6(6) of this Act.

Textual Amendments

F25 S. 9(1) substituted (1.11.1991) by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (c. 22, SIF 59, 108), s. 168(1), Sch. 8 para. 23(2); which substitution is in force for Scotland only by S.I. 1991/2286, art. 2(2), Sch.2 and for England and Wales only by S.I. 1991/2288, art. 3,Sch.

F26 Words in s. 9(1)(b) substituted (1.7.1992) by Road Traffic Act 1991 (c. 40, SIF 107:1), s. 48, Sch. 4, para. 24; S.I. 1992/1286, art. 2,Sch.

F27 S. 9(2)(2A) substituted (1.11.1991) for s. 9(2) by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (c. 22, SIF 59, 108), s. 168(1), Sch. 8 para. 23(3); which substitution is in force for Scotland only by S.I. 1991/2286, art. 2(2), Sch. 2 and for England and Wales only by S.I. 1991/2288, art. 3, Sch.

F28 Words in s. 9(5) substituted by Local Government Act 1985 (c. 51, SIF 81:1), ss. 1, 2, 8(1), Sch. 5 para. 4(4)

F29 S. 9(5A) inserted (1.11.1991) by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (c. 22, SIF 59, 108), s. 168(1), Sch. 8 para. 23(4); which insertion is in force for Scotland only by S.I. 1991/2286, art. 2(2), Sch. 2 and for England and Wales only by S.I. 1991/2288, art. 3,Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C21 S. 9 restricted by Local Government Act 1985 (c. 51, SIF 81:1), ss. 1(2), 8(2), Sch. 5 para. 6(3)

C22 S. 9 restricted by Local Government Act 1985 (c. 51, SIF 81:1), s. 8(2), Sch. 5 para. 12

S. 9 restricted (4.1.1995) by 1994 c. 39, ss. 7(2), 44(2); S.I. 1994/2850, art. 3(a), Sch. 2

C23 S. 9 modified (1.7.1992) by S.I. 1992/1217, reg. 3(1)(c) (with reg. 11)

S. 9 modified (1.7.1992) by S.I. 1992/1217, reg.5 (with reg. 11).

C24 S. 9: power to make orders extended (S.) (1.4.2002) by The Forth Estuary Transport Authority Order 2002 (S.S.I. 2002/178), art. 9

10 Supplementary provisions as to experimental traffic orders. E+W+S

(1) An experimental traffic order—

(a) may provide for the suspension or modification, while the order is in force, of any provision previously made by or under any enactment, if it is a provision that could have been made by the order; and

(b) shall, to the extent that it is inconsistent with any provision subsequently made by or under any enactment, cease to have effect.

[F30 (2) An experimental traffic order may include provision empowering a specified officer of the authority who made the order, or a person authorised by such a specified officer, to modify or suspend the operation of the order or any provision of it if it appears to him essential—

(a) in the interests of the expeditious, convenient and safe movement of traffic,

(b) in the interests of providing suitable and adequate on-street parking facilities, or

(c) for preserving or improving the amenities of the area through which any road affected by the order runs.

The power conferred by such a provision shall be exercised only after consulting the appropriate chief officer of police and giving such public notice as the Secretary of State may direct.]

[F31 (3) Any such power to modify an experimental traffic order as is mentioned in subsection (2) above does not extend to making additions to the order or to designating additional on-street parking places for which charges are made; but subject to that the modifications may be of any description.]

(4) No appeal shall lie to the Secretary of State from the [F32 commissioner for the Metropolitan Traffic Area under section 42 of the Transport Act 1985 in the case of a decision of the commissioner with respect to a London local service licence if and so far as he certifies] that the decision was necessary to secure conformity with an experimental traffic order prescribing—

(a) the routes to be followed, or roads which are not to be used, by vehicles affected by the decision, or

(b) the places in roads where such vehicles may or may not wait, or

(c) the stopping places for such vehicles.

(5) The Secretary of State may repay to [F33 a London borough council or the Common Council of the City of London] any expenses incurred by [F33 that council] in connection with any experimental traffic order made by them.

[F34 (6) The reference in subsection (4) above to the Metropolitan Traffic Area shall be construed as if it were contained in the Public Passenger Vehicles Act 1981.]

Textual Amendments

F30 S. 10(2) substituted (1.11.1991) by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (c. 22, SIF 59, 108) s. 168(1), Sch. 8 para. 24(2); which substitution is in force for Scotland only by S.I. 1991/2286, art. 2(2), Sch. 2. and for England and Wales only by S.I. 1991/2288, art. 3,Sch.

F31 S. 10(3) substituted (1.11.1991) by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (c. 22, SIF 59, 108) s. 168(1), Sch. 8 para. 24(3); which substitution is in force for Scotland only by S.I. 1991/2286, art. 2(2), Sch.2. and for England and Wales only by S.I. 1991/2288, art. 3, Sch.

F32 Words substituted by Transport Act 1985 (c. 67, SIF 126), s. 1(3), Sch. 1 para. 15(3)(a)

F33 Words substituted by Local Government Act 1985 (c. 51, SIF 81:1), ss. 1, 2, 8(1), Sch. 5 para. 4(5)

F34 S. 10(6) inserted by Transport Act 1985 (c. 67, SIF 126), s. 1(3), Sch. 1 para. 15(3)(b)

11 Contravention of experimental traffic order. E+W+S

[F35 (1)] Any person who acts in contravention of, or fails to comply with, an experimental traffic order shall be guilty of an offence.

[F36 (2) This section does not apply in relation to any experimental traffic order so far as it designates any parking places in Greater London.]

Textual Amendments

F35 S. 11 renumbered as s. 11(1) (5.7.1993, 4.10.1993, 6.12.1993, 31.1.1994, 5.4.1994 and 4.7.1994 respectively for specified London boroughs and otherwise prosp.) by Road Traffic Act 1991 (c. 40, SIF 107:1), s. 65(3) (with s. 79(1)); S.I. 1993/1461, art. 3(1)(b); S.I. 1993/2229, art. 3(b); S.I. 1993/2803, art. 2(b); S.I. 1993/3238, art. 2(b); S.I. 1994/81, art. 3(b); S.I. 1994/1482, art. 2(a), Sch.; S.I. 1994/1484, art. 2(a)

F36 S. 11(2) inserted (5.7.1993, 4.10.1993, 6.12.1993, 31.1.1994, 5.4.1994 and 4.7.1994 respectively for specified London boroughs and otherwise prosp.) by Road Traffic Act 1991 (c. 40, SIF 107:1), s. 65(3) (with s. 79(1)); S.I. 1993/1461, art. 3(1)(b); S.I. 1993/2229, art. 3(b); S.I. 1993/2803, art. 2(b); S.I. 1993/3238, art. 2(b); S.I. 1994/81, art. 3(b); S.I. 1994/1482, art. 2(a), Sch.; S.I. 1994/1484, art. 2(a)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C25 S. 11 excluded (temp. from 1.10.1991 for E.W. and from 16.6.1997 for S.) by Road Traffic Act 1991 (c. 40, SIF 107:1), s. 76(3)(b) (with s. 79(1)); S.I. 1991/2054, art. 3,Sch.; S.I. 1997/1580, art. 2

S. 11 excluded (temp. from 1.10.1991 for E.W. and otherwise prosp.) by Road Traffic Act 1991 (c. 40, SIF 107:1), ss. 43, 84(1), Sch. 3 para. 2(4)(b); S.I. 1991/2054, art. 3, Sch.

C26 S. 11 applied (with modifications) by London Local Authorities and Transport for London Act 2003 (c. iii), s. 7(3)

12 Experimental traffic schemes in Greater London. E+W+S

(1) Where it appears to the commissioner of police expedient to do so for the purpose of carrying out within his area an experimental scheme of traffic control, he may, with the consent of [F37 the local authority], and after giving such notice as [F37 that authority] may direct, make regulations for regulating vehicular traffic in any manner specified in Schedule 2 to this Act.

[F38 (1A) The local authority shall not give their consent to any such scheme affecting a road for which the Secretary of State is the traffic authority except with his agreement.

(2) The Secretary of State may in the case of any scheme, after consultation with the local authority, direct them to consent to the scheme within a specified period or to withhold their consent.]

(3) The Secretary of State shall not give a direction under subsection (2) above unless he is satisfied, having regard to any matters appearing to him to be relevant, that [F39 the local authority’s] duty under section 122(1) of this Act is not being satisfactorily discharged by [F39 the authority] and that the giving of the direction is necessary to secure compliance with that duty.

(4) Any provision contained in regulations under this section may be made so as to apply—

(a) at all times or on specified days or during specified periods;

(b) either throughout the day or during any specified part of the day; and

(c) to vehicular traffic generally or to vehicular traffic of any class specified in the regulations;

and regulations under this section may make different provision for different classes of traffic.

(5) Regulations under this section may suspend or modify any order for the time being in force under section 6 of this Act.

(6) Regulations under this section shall not continue in force for a period longer than 6 months after they are made, together with such further period or periods (if any) not exceeding 12 months in all as, at any time before the regulations expire, [F40 the local authority] may direct.

(7) Without prejudice to the power of the commissioner of police to revoke any regulations under this section, any such regulations may be revoked by an order under section 6 of this Act.

(8) A document purporting to be a copy, certified by a person authorised by the commissioner of police, of regulations under this section shall be evidence of the contents of such regulations.

(9) This section shall apply within Greater London but not elsewhere.

[F41 (10) In this section—

• “the commissioner of police ”, in relation to the metropolitan police district, means the commissioner of police of the metropolis and, in relation to the City of London, means the commissioner of police for the City of London; and

• “local authority ” means the council of a London borough or the Common Council of the City of London.]

Textual Amendments

F37 Words substituted by Local Government Act 1985 (c. 51, SIF 81:1), ss. 1, 2, 8(1), Sch. 5 para. 4(6)(a)

F38 S. 12(1A)(2) substituted (1.11.1991) for s. 12(2) by New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (c. 22, SIF 59, 108) s. 168(1), Sch. 8 para.25; which substitution is in force for Scotland only by S.I. 1991/2286, art. 2(2), Sch. 2. and for England and Wales only by S.I. 1991/2288, art. 3,Sch.

F39 Words substituted by Local Government Act 1985 (c. 51, SIF 81:1), ss. 1, 2, 8(1), Sch. 5 para. 4(6)(c)

F40 Words substituted by Local Government Act 1985 (c. 51, SIF 81:1), ss. 1, 2, 8(1), Sch. 5 para. 4(6)(d)

F41 S. 12(10) substituted by Local Government Act 1985 (c. 51, SIF 81:1), ss. 1, 2, 8(1), Sch. 5 para. 4(6)(e)

13 Contravention of regulations under s. 12. E+W+S

Any person who contravenes, or fails to comply with, regulations under section 12 of this Act shall be guilty of an offence.

[F42 Temporary suspension] E+W+S

Textual Amendments

F42 S. 13A inserted (1.10.1991) by Road Traffic Act 1991 (c. 40, SIF 107:1), s. 81, Sch. 7, para.4 (with s. 79(1)); S.I. 1991/2054, art. 3,Sch.

[F43 13A Temporary suspension of provisions under s. 6 or 9 orders. E+W+S

(1) The Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis or the Commissioner of Police for the City of London may temporarily suspend the operation of any provision of an order made under section 6 or 9 of this Act so far as that provision relates to any road or part of a road in Greater London which is within his area, in order to prevent or mitigate congestion or obstruction of traffic, or danger to or from traffic in consequence of extraordinary circumstances.

(2) Subject to subsection (3) below, the period of suspension under subsection (1) above shall not continue for more than 7 days.

(3) If the Secretary of State gives his consent to the period of suspension being continued for more than 7 days, the suspension shall continue until the end of such period as may be specified by the Secretary of State in giving his consent.]

Textual Amendments

F43 S. 13A inserted(1.10.1991) by Road Traffic Act 1991 (c. 40, SIF 107:1), s. 81, Sch. 7, para. 4 (with s. 79(1)); S.I. 1991/2054, art. 3,Sch.