The Government has stopped Wandsworth Council from ‘unlawful’ fining of drivers who break the speed limit after the council became the first local authority to issue its own tickets.
The council had introduced speed cameras on a trial basis on two of its 20mph roads, with the plan of eventually rolling out the scheme across the borough.
However, the Department for Transport (DfT) called on the DVLA to stop sharing details of drivers with the local authority.
It is understood that the reason behind the DfT’s decision is that under current legislation, only the police are allowed to issue speeding fines.
A DfT spokesperson said: ‘Wandsworth Council is carrying out this experimental speed enforcement trial using powers in a way that is unlawful.
‘We have therefore taken immediate action and asked DVLA to stop sharing registered keeper details with Wandsworth Council for the purpose of enforcing this scheme.’
The council has been contacted for comment.