Hundreds of drivers in Leicester have been penalised for violating yellow box junction regulations, as part of new enforcement measures introduced by Leicester City Council.
The initiative, designed to ease congestion and improve traffic flow, has sparked concerns that it may serve as a fresh revenue stream for local authorities.
Leicester City Council implemented camera enforcement on key roads, including Abbey Street, Gravel Street, Vaughan Way, and Causeway Lane, to prevent gridlock and ensure smoother traffic movement. Under Rule 174 of the Highway Code, drivers must not enter a yellow box unless their exit is clear—except when waiting to turn right if obstructed by oncoming traffic.
The enforcement officially commenced on May 27, 2024, with a six-month grace period during which only warning letters were issued. However, since full implementation, drivers stopping illegally in the junctions have faced fines of £70, reduced to £35 if paid promptly.
Between May and November 2024, a total of 1,865 warning notices were issued across two major junctions, resulting in 475 fines. Breaking down the figures, Abbey Street and Gravel Street saw 647 warnings and 280 Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) issued, while Vaughan Way and Causeway Lane recorded 1,218 warnings and 195 PCNs.
The council introduced these measures to combat junction blockages that disrupt bus services, emergency vehicles, and general traffic flow. The presence of illegally stopped vehicles often exacerbates congestion, potentially leading to city-wide gridlock.
A Leicester City Council spokesperson defended the enforcement, stating:
“Camera enforcement is an effective way of deterring motorists from committing traffic offences that can be dangerous or obstructive for other road users.”
City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby reinforced this view, highlighting that these “London-style” camera-enforced yellow box junctions will benefit all road users.
He stated:
“The clearly marked yellow box junctions are there to stop motorists from entering unless their exit is clear, as set out in the Highway Code. The new enforcement powers allow us to take responsibility for ensuring efficient and safe traffic flow.”
While the initiative aims to improve congestion, critics argue that the fines may be financially motivated. Jack Cousens, Head of Roads Policy at the AA, warned:
“Allowing local authorities the power to fine drivers for yellow box junction infringements has undoubtedly opened up a new revenue stream for cash-strapped councils.”
He also emphasised that most drivers do not deliberately break the rules, advocating for a warning letter for first-time offenders rather than an immediate fine.
Yellow box rules are now strictly enforced, and entering a box without a clear exit can lead to a fine. The £70 penalty is reduced to £35 if paid promptly. Camera enforcement is automatic, and there are no exceptions for unintentional infractions. While the council aims to reduce
congestion, concerns remain over fairness and financial motives.
As Leicester tightens traffic enforcement, motorists must remain vigilant at box junctions—or risk facing costly penalties.
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