Approval given for new speed cameras
NEW speed cameras on the main road through the Swansea Valley have been given formal approval.
Average speed cameras will be built on two sections of the A4067 between Ynystawe and Pontardawe, and the speed limit cut from 60mph to 40mph.
Welsh Government funding for the work was approved by leaders at Swansea Council, which will deliver the project.
Speaking at a cabinet meeting on November 18, Cllr Mark Thomas, whose brief includes transport, said: “Average speed cameras have been found to be the most effective way by far to protect lives.”
The stretch of the A4067 in question, he said, had experienced a significant number of injuries, plus fatalities. Speed was found to be a factor in one fatal and two serious accidents in the most recent three-year reporting period.
There was another fatal accident in the month prior to the three-year period.
Part of the work will extend north into Neath Port Talbot, but Swansea Council will act as the lead authority. The work is expected to cost £207,100.
Council leader Rob Stewart said: “I am sure the community around that area will welcome the speed measures which are being placed on these roads.”
Speaking before the meeting, Neath
Port Talbot councillor Linet Purcell, who represents Pontardawe, said she backed the new cameras and speed limit
She said: “This is a place where people put their foot down – unfortunately it has resulted in horrible accidents.”
Swansea’s cabinet also approved a £12,000 study of two Gower villages, Scurlarge and Knelston, where speeding concerns have been raised. It may lead to new measures being implemented.
Cllr Thomas said speed limits had already been cut on the main access roads through Gower, but that rural villages in particular had issues with speeding because people sometimes had to walk on the road due to a lack of pavements.
And £283,200 of Welsh Government money will be spent this financial year to slow traffic in Gowerton, which has two comprehensive schools, and encourage more walking and cycling.
A 20mph limit on Sterry Road, Cecil Road and Gorwydd Road will be introduced, along with new road “cushions” and plateaus.
There will also be crossing upgrades for cyclists at two junctions in the town.
Council chiefs hope the measures will encourage more commuters to use the A484 bypass.