Groningen: Trial of camera surveillance compliance with window hours begins

The trial focuses on Brugstraat, Poelestraat and Peperstraat. The aim is to combat the illegal entry of motorized traffic into these streets, which will improve the quality of life. Cameras register the license plates of all motorized vehicles. The chance of catching offenders is 100%. Vehicles (such as cars, trucks, vans) that do not have an exemption will first receive a warning, but from January 15, 2019, they will be immediately fined. The trial will last six months, after which evaluation will follow.

Nuisance
For many years motorized traffic in certain parts of the inner city has been allowed to be present at certain times and places only within window times (5 a.m. - 12 p.m.), or by virtue of an exemption. However, this measure is not sufficiently enforced, causing inconvenience to both visitors and business owners in the inner city.

Poelestraat and Peperstraat
In the pedestrian area of Poelestraat and Peperstraat, cameras can also be used to better monitor the illegal entry of scooters and mopeds. The pilot project was ratified by the City Council on the initiative of B&W. The city's business community (such as distributors, GCC and business associations) also participated in the creation of the pilot project.

Warnings
Extraordinary investigating officers (BOAs) of Stadstoezicht will hand out warnings until January 15, then fines. These will be collected by the CJIB in Leeuwarden on behalf of the State. The trial is included in the privacy register of the municipality of Groningen and meets the requirements of the AVG. The cameras do not record people or make recordings of people.

Exemption
Companies or individuals who indicate they need or want to enter the area outside window times can apply to the Municipality of Groningen for an exemption. They may be granted dispensation under certain conditions. The website of the Municipality of Groningen explains what they must do and when they are eligible. The trial will last 6 months and will end June 1, 2019. The Municipal Executive will then evaluate the results of the trial. The city council may then decide to expand camera surveillance to the entire city center.