Speed camera network may be privatised
New Zealand’s speed camera network could soon be privately managed as police look to redeploy their resources.
The network currently includes 19 fixed speed cameras, 43 mobile speed cameras in vans, and three dual purpose red light/speed cameras. But the number of fixed cameras is to swell to 56 by the end of the year, increasing the workload involved in managing the network and processing infringements. Police are now reviewing their ownership of the network. Details of the move were revealed in a briefing from New Zealand Transport Agency chief executive Fergus Gammie to the Minister of Transport, obtained under the Official Information Act.
In it Gammie said both the police and agency had agreed a review was needed for several reasons. These included the fact that the level of resources required to run the network diverted resources away from other road policing priorities.
‘‘[There is] the need to continuously increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the police’s workforce by ensuring all staff are undertaking the right activities at the right times to address road safety risks.’’ Other reasons for the review included an increase in the use of technology in the network and higher interest from road controlling authorities to own and manage items such as red light cameras.
Police national road policing manager Superintendent Steve Greally said transferring the network management to the NZTA or a private/public partnership were both possibilities. If the latter was chosen, statutory oversight by a government agency would remain a key requirement.
It was also possible the network would continue to be managed by police following the review.
Greally noted that all traffic fines went to the Government’s consolidated fund and not to police.
‘‘The aim of the safety camera system is not to generate fines, but to encourage people to travel at legal safe speeds and therefore reduce speed-related deaths and injuries. This would remain the focus of the system regardless of whatever future operating model may be in place.’’
The review is expected to be completed by October.