Speed cameras catch M4 drivers exceeding limits
More than 13,000 notices of intended prosecution have been issued since the M4 variable speed limit came into operation between junctions 24 and 28.
A total of 13,195 notices of intended prosecution were issued between October 10 last year and February 28 this year after drivers were caught speeding between junction 24 at Coldra and junction 28 at Tredegar Park, Newport.
Between September 26 and October 9, when the cameras were first switched on, 398 advisory notices were handed out to motorists who broke the speed limit in an attempt to increase awareness of the then upcoming changes.
Notices of intended prosecution then started to be issued from October 10. Drivers caught speeding face a speed awareness course, a fine or a prosecution.
The variable speed limit calculates the volume of traffic on the road and alters the speed limit accordingly. The limit can drop to between 40mph and 60mph and aims to reduce congestion and accidents on the busy stretch of road.
It is enforced by GoSafe, a multi-agency partnership comprising all highway authorities within Wales and the four Welsh police forces.
GoSafe said the reduced speeds are leading to the intended outcome.
Chris Hume, GoSafe’s partnership manager, said: “The number of drivers detected speeding is a very small percentage of the number of vehicles passing through this area.
“We would ask all drivers to adhere to the posted limits.”
But critics argue the cameras don’t reduce road congestion or improve road safety.
Brian MacDowall, of the Association of British Drivers, said: “These statistics just show what we have known from the start – this isn’t about road safety, it’s about raising money.
“While we are not against speed cameras, we believe using them on our motorways is just an attempt to raise revenue.
“Motorways like the M4 are statistically some of Britain’s safest roads.
“Variable speed cameras don’t catch dangerous drivers, those who are driving drunk or under the influence of drugs – instead they tend to penalise law-abiding drivers,” added Mr MacDowall.