Successful traffic operation improves road safety

Last week Thames Valley Police (TVP), the Public Protection Partnership (PPP) and Bracknell Forest Council carried out a vehicle inspection operation in the borough to improve road safety.

Thames Valley Police and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) inspected over 30 vehicles travelling around Bracknell. This resulted in 21 prohibition orders being issued, requiring drivers to stop driving immediately.

One vehicle received 9 orders due to severe safety violations and it was taken off the road. A further 9 delayed prohibition orders were issued, requiring vehicle owners to rectify issues within a set deadline.

Five vehicles were identified as overweight, with 2 exceeding the legal limit by 3.5 tonnes. One vehicle, already over its maximum weight and with a previously suspended licence, will face prosecution by the DVSA.

A van from Southampton was seized by the police for lacking a valid MOT, having no tax, and being deemed unroadworthy. 

The police also issued 10 tickets for offences like lack of seat belts, mobile phone use, and vehicle defects. 

24 vehicles were checked for waste carrier licences. All but 1 vehicle was found to be compliant.  

Cllr Guy Gillbe, Executive Member for Planning and Transport and Cllr Helen Purnell, Executive Member for Environment and Community Cohesion, attended the operation. They said:

“We are so grateful to the strong partnership we have with TVP, the PPP and the DVSA. Together we are committed to making roads in Bracknell Forest safer for all.

“This operation not only ensures the safety of the local community, but also the drivers of the vehicles, helping to prevent incidents that could arise from non-compliance.”

Sean Murphy, Service Lead for Public Protection, said:

“These joint operations are invaluable for enforcement purposes and for their deterrent effects. We look forward to working with our partners on future operations.”