Overview

This bill amends the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 to allow for the temporary closure or restriction of roads in England and Wales to facilitate filming. It sets out clear procedures and limitations on the length of time roads can be closed, and who has the authority to do so.

Description

The bill adds a new section (16BA) to the 1984 Act, enabling traffic authorities to temporarily restrict or prohibit road use for filming purposes. This can be done if the authority is satisfied that road closure is necessary to facilitate filming or reduce disruption. Before issuing an order, the authority must confirm that filming is not reasonably practicable without the closure.

Limitations on closures:

• Closures are generally limited to 7 days unless approved for longer by the relevant Minister (Secretary of State or Welsh Ministers).
• Extensions can be granted in 3-day increments, but only if filming is ongoing and deemed appropriate.
• A maximum of 6 closures per road per year is permitted unless approved by the relevant Minister or by specified authorities (Secretary of State, Welsh Ministers, or a strategic highways company).

The bill also makes consequential amendments to other related Acts to ensure consistency and incorporate the new provisions regarding filming-related road closures.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to have a significant impact on government spending. The costs associated with administering the new process are likely to be minimal.

Groups Affected

• Film production companies: Will benefit from a clearer legal framework for road closures during filming.
• Traffic authorities: Will have new responsibilities for managing and approving road closures for filming.
• Road users: May experience temporary disruptions due to road closures, although the bill aims to minimise this through its limitations and processes.
• Local residents and businesses: May experience disruption but benefit from the economic activity generated by film productions.
• Ministers and the Secretary of State: Have increased responsibility related to approving requests for longer road closures and higher closure frequencies.

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