Community Speed Watch returns to Northamptonshire

Following the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions, Northamptonshire Police announces the return of the county’s Community Speed Watch programme.

From Saturday (March 5), volunteers will be giving up their time to work alongside the Force’s Safer Roads Team to reduce speeding across the county.

A total of 43 Community Speed Watch groups will be taking part in the initiative, which sees fully trained residents use speed detection devices to monitor vehicles travelling through towns and villages on roads with limits of 20, 30 and 40mph.

Warning letters are sent to the registered keeper of any vehicles caught exceeding the speed limit, which aims to increase awareness of the dangers of speeding and encourage drivers to reduce their speed.

The drivers’ details are held on record to identify any repeat offenders, and anyone caught exceeding the limits more than twice can expect a visit from the police as well as targeted enforcement.

Safer Roads Operations Manager at Northamptonshire Police, Matthew O’Connell, said: “Speeding continues to be one of the main concerns for residents across the county, whether they live in one of the county’s larger urban areas or smaller rural communities.

“During the Covid-19 pandemic we were unable to run Community Speed Watch groups however, we’ve been overwhelmed by high numbers of residents who have volunteered for this year’s programme.

“To have so many people who are passionate about improving road safety within our local communities is just fantastic, and I have no doubt their dedication and commitment will help make a real difference across the county.

“Wind, rain or shine, our volunteers will not only provide invaluable data but also help to raise awareness of the dangers of speeding and educate offending drivers on the importance of sticking to the speed limit.”

All volunteers must undergo a digital training session to enable them to take part in roadside sessions, which are held between March and October. This covers the practical and operating elements and includes a practical session.

If you’re interested in becoming a Community Speed Watch volunteer, please visit www.northants.police.uk/CSW for more information.