HC Deb 18 November 1997 vol 301 cc129-30W
Ms Walley

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will make a statement on the effectiveness of speed cameras in reducing speed. [15650]

Ms Glenda Jackson

Speed cameras are particularly good at reducing vehicle speeds in some circumstances. Twenty one cameras placed on roads in West London have shown a 70 per cent. reduction in fatal accidents between 1992 and 1995. A Home Office study of cameras in 10 police forces undertaken between November 1995 and March 1996 showed that accidents reduced by 28 per cent. and average speeds by 4 mph at speed camera sites. However, the effects of cameras are localised, so we recommend that they are used at sites with a history of speed related accidents where they can successfully reduce the likelihood of further incidents.

Mr. Keetch

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will list his Department's guidelines relating to the installing of speed cameras in villages; what Government funding is available for such cameras; what research his Department has evaluated into the impact of speed cameras on the rate of accidents in villages; and what estimate he has made of the relative costs of installing cameras on A and B roads. [15962]

Ms Glenda Jackson

Guidance on the deployment of speed enforcement cameras was issued by the Department in Circular Roads 1/92. Specific central funding is not usually made available for cameras. Installation costs are typically met by Highway authorities; and operational costs by the police. A Home Office study of cameras in 10 police forces undertaken between November 1995 and March 1996 showed a 28 per cent. drop in accidents and a 4 mph reduction in speed at camera sites. The study showed that the average fixed cost per site for a speed camera was £12,500 and average recurrent costs were around £8,500 per annum. The report did not specify camera site locations. I am unable to give average costs for villages and other areas.

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