Until recently, Scarborough has benefited from the former North Yorkshire Chief Constable’s policy not to introduce fixed speed cameras anywhere in the county. However, the new Chief Constable is, as yet, undecided on whether to introduce fixed speed cameras into North Yorkshire. If he does, they may well be introduced in Scarborough and on the surrounding main roads such as the A64, A165 and A171.

Speed cameras, which are officially known as road safety cameras, have been controversial. Speed cameras have many opponents but also many supporters.

It is not known what the general feeling of the people of Scarborough is towards speed cameras, although we are confident that the issue will be divisive.

We call upon the Police and the Council to consult with the people of Scarborough before introducing speed cameras in and around the town.

A point that must be raised is that the introduction of speed cameras on the A64, A165 or A171 seems a little pointless as it is rare that motorists are ever given the opportunity to exceed the speed limit on these roads near Scarborough due to the roads being single carriageway and the traffic being slowed by HGVs and agricultural vehicles. If anything, a speed camera by the side of these roads would simply be another obstacle that poses a threat to motorists if they leave the carriageway in poor weather conditions that blight North Yorkshire.

Also, it has been proven that flashing road signs that warn a driver who is going too fast are more effective. For example, in a trial on the M42, these signs showed both a greater number of cars slowing down and those that slowed remained at a lower speed for longer, compared to a speed camera sign. We urge the Police and the Council to introduce flashing road signs as an alternative to speed cameras in Scarborough.

If you have any questions in relation to speed cameras in and around Scarborough, please contact us on 0808 160 5016.