Speedwatch

Speeding continues to be a concern for many communities in both rural and urban environments. Community Speedwatch (CSW) is a nationwide initiative where active members of local communities join with the support of the Police to monitor speeds of vehicles using speed detection devices.

Vehicles exceeding the speed limit are referred to the Police with the aim of educating drivers to reduce their speeds. In cases where education is blatantly ignored and evidence of repeat or excessive offences is collated (even across county borders), enforcement and prosecution may follow.

Volunteers receive appropriate training, and are supported by neighbourhood policing team (NPT) staff. The scheme aims to cater for the problem of real or perceived speed related offending, and through partnership with the Long Sutton and Well community it is used in circumstances that are necessary, justifiable and proportionate in order to:

• Reduce death and injury on the roads
• Improve the quality of life for local communities
• Reduce the speed of vehicles to the speed limit
• Increase public awareness of inappropriate speed

Speedwatch activity is not about interfering with neighbours’ behaviour; it is a proactive solution to improve the safety and quality of life for everyone in the community. This is particularly important in Long Sutton, given the location of two popular schools that generate significant increased traffic within our Parish.  Cllr Mark Bartlett (mark.bartlett@longsutton.com) leads on Speedwatch.