Parkway speed cameras go live

BEWARE – you are being clocked.

That was the warning to motorists on Peaks Parkway as speed cameras became effective.

The 30mph route which is one of the busiest roads in North East Lincolnshire has had average speed cameras since November last year.

They were introduced to monitor the average speed of vehicles along the 30mph stretch of the A16 between Frederick Ward Way and Peaks Tunnel Bridge, in an attempt to cut the number of accidents, but were not in enforcement mode.

There have been 99 casualties in the last five years along the route.

The cost of installing the cameras and ancillary equipment is around £100,000.

Michael Harris, partnership manager for Safer Roads Humber, said enforcement has now begun and anyone exceeding the speed limit will face a penalty.

He said: "We urge all motorists to drive safely and appropriately within the speed limit at all times. The motoring public should treat Peaks Parkway as a fully-operational speed site and drive accordingly. Responsible drivers will already be doing so."

He added: "The system that's being installed is an average speed system, which basically measures the speed of a vehicle at different points along the road. The system works out the average speed the vehicle is travelling and only those travelling in excess of the speed limit will be prosecuted."

The cameras can clock vehicles from the front or behind, and the average speed can be taken before or after stoppages at traffic lights.

Humberside Police casualty reduction officer Pc Barry Gardner welcomed the enforcement move.

He said: "There are a lot of crashes at the junctions crossing Peaks Parkway. A fair number of them have been because of people trying to beat the lights or going through red.

"Hopefully, it is those drivers who are increasing their speed to beat the lights or jump the lights who are going to get a penalty. All the measures are brought about to reduce collisions."

Fines arising from the enforcement will go to the Treasury.

Some drivers are able to be offered training instead of a fine and points on their licence, the income from which remains local and will be used for road safety initiatives.

Dave Poucher, principal highways officer for Balfour Beatty said: "As such, the cameras not only save lives, but provide money for our community by funding future road safety works and campaigns."