Cameras catching drivers in bus lanes and parking dangerously in Southampton are expected to earn the council £3 million over the next five years.

The city council has ten automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) camera sites, as well as a mobile enforcement vehicle.

The ANPR sites currently cover three bus lanes, two bus gates and five zigzag lines outside schools.

A possible three extra sites would see the total projected income up to the end of 2028/29 rise from £3.07 million to £4.435 million.

The forecast figures have been published as the council prepares to change the procurement of the ANPR camera enforcement contract.

A cabinet meeting on Tuesday, April 16, was told that the council currently goes through its highways service partner Balfour Beatty Living Places to source its ANPR provision.

Councillors approved the move to enter into a direct contract with supplier Marston Holdings for five years.

The council will spend up to £570,000 over the duration of contract term for the installation, maintenance and repair of the ANPR cameras.

Switching to direct procurement will make a saving of £62,000 over five years compared to the existing arrangement, a report said.

The intention is that all enforcement cameras will be self-funding and when compliance at a specific site is achieved the camera will be relocated.

It is expected that all expenditure to Marston will be covered by the income generated by enforcement.

Cllr Eamonn Keogh, cabinet member for environment and transport, said: “We have a very strong and ambitious local transport plan where we want to help residents get around the city whatever their choice.

“Whether it is walking, whether it is on wheels, bus or in cars and it is really important that where there is a need for enforcement that we can support that through the use of ANPR cameras.

“What it does do is it means we can create that safer and more accessible city that is clearly underpinned in our local transport plan.”