The value of ANPR enforcement for Local Authorities

Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) has evolved into an essential asset for civil enforcement. By delivering evidential-quality imagery and data, these systems empower Local Authorities to enforce regulations fairly and effectively.

What is ANPR?

At its core, ANPR is a technology that pairs specialised cameras with optical character recognition software to read vehicle number plates, record location data, and capture time-stamps. Unlike standard CCTV, ANPR systems are specifically built to isolate and record vehicle identity data instantly.

How are ANPR cameras used in the Public Sector?

Local Authorities leverage ANPR management systems to improve road safety and maintain traffic flow. By integrating these cameras with wider traffic management systems, councils can ensure that congested urban areas remain accessible.

ANPR-enabled systems allow authorities to:

• Analyse traffic flow and predict journey times.

• Enforce Bus Lane regulations.

• Manage Congestion Zones and Low-Emission Zones (LEZ).

• Automate toll collection.

• Monitor Box Junctions.

• Enforce banned turns (No Left/Right Turn) and one-way systems.

• Manage residential access/Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs).

Beyond moving traffic, typical deployment scenarios can include:

• Deterring and evidencing fly-tipping.

• Enforcing environmental regulations.

• Managing School Streets initiatives for child safety.

• General site security and access control.

The advantages of ANPR enforcement solutions

1. End-to-end automation

Unity5’s Zatpark ANPR integration significantly reduces the administrative workload. By automating the capture and initial processing of contraventions, the system removes the need for manual footage review. This delivers substantial time savings and allows staff to focus on higher-value tasks.

2. Unrivalled precision

Manual checks are prone to human error, but automated systems like Zatpark are built for precision. ANPR cameras differ from general-purpose CCTV. They utilise intelligent image analysis to capture multiple frames, including wide-angle context and close-up plate reads, ensuring evidential quality regardless of weather conditions, lighting, or vehicle speed.

3. Continuous monitoring

A Zatpark-integrated ANPR system offers 24/7 operation or can be scheduled for specific enforcement windows. This capability reduces reliance on physical security patrols and manned guarding, lowering operational costs while maintaining consistent compliance.

4. Rapid data processing

Zatpark ANPR integrations allow for the identification of contraventions in minutes, enabling the issuance of Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) often within 48 hours. Built on robust cloud infrastructure, the software ensures that unpermitted vehicle behaviour is recognised and actioned immediately.

5. Flexible and cost-effective deployment

While fixed ANPR cameras are powerful, they can be capital-intensive regarding installation and connectivity. Re-deployable ANPR cameras offer a versatile alternative.

Ideal for temporary schemes, such as School Streets monitoring during term time, these units can be moved as priorities change. When integrated with Zatpark, you gain the flexibility to deploy hardware wherever it is needed most, without losing the centralised control of the Zatpark back-office system.

How Zatpark streamlines enforcement

Zatpark is a cloud-native parking and enforcement management platform designed to handle the entire lifecycle of a contravention. It integrates seamlessly with a wide ecosystem of third-party ANPR hardware, appeals services, and debt resolution partners.

Key benefits of ANPR in the Zatpark Platform:

• Extended enforcement: automates monitoring outside of standard working hours.

• Service integration: seamlessly processes ANPR evidence within one dashboard.

• Administrative efficiency: innovative tools reduce back-office manual entry.

• Pre-booking support: speeds up booking-in processes for pre-booked parking.

• Cost reduction: lowers the requirement for on-foot patrol officers who can be re-deployed elsewhere.

• Mobile capabilities: The Zatpark Mobile App extends ANPR capabilities to handheld devices, speeding up vehicle observations for Civil Enforcement Officers on the ground.

• Talk to one of our friendly experts today today to discover how Zatpark ANPR can transform your enforcement strategy. Click here to book a Discovery Call.

 

Click here to discover how ANPR is being used by Oxfordshire County Council for moving traffic initiatives and reducing congestion and pollution.

Talk to one of our friendly experts today today to discover how Zatpark ANPR can transform your enforcement strategy. Click here to book a Discovery Call.