Top cop pledges to reduce road deaths (From Swindon Advertiser)

Top cop pledges to reduce road deaths

7:59pm Thursday 23rd October 2008

• Print
• Email
• Share

A TOP cop has said that Wiltshire Police will not compromise on public safety despite the council’s plans to axe speed cameras.

David Ainsworth, Deputy Chief Constable of Wiltshire, said “I want to be absolutely clear that in this matter Wiltshire Police will not compromise on public safety.

“Together with other partners in the road safety partnership Wiltshire Police remain committed to the support of a variety of methods including the use of cameras in speed enforcement.

“One of the five challenges of the force is to achieve a ‘safe and satisfied’ position for the people of Swindon and Wiltshire and we will tirelessly pursue that aim.”

Because of Wednesday’s decision, the council could pull out of the partnership officially in April – giving six months’ notice.

Until then anyone caught speeding will still be subject to a fine and points on their licence.

If after six months the partnership agrees to fund cameras in Swindon itself then residents may still face fines or points if they are clocked above the limit.

Mr Ainsworth said: “The commitment of the Wiltshire and Swindon Safety Camera Partnership to achieve a reduction of 40 per cent in deaths and injuries and 50 per cent in respect of child casualties by 2010 is an essential part of achieving the ‘safe and satisfied’ position and Wiltshire Police will continue to play its full part in that process.

“We have previously made proposals to the council including the need to see, and agree their plan, and for us to be satisfied that it puts public safety first.

“It is also necessary that any such plan produced is revised and agreed by all partners, piloted, and evaluated, before any decision to remove a camera is made.

“It is also important that all existing arrangements continue in full until the point that actual implementation of any new and agreed plan can proceed.”

• Print
• Email
• Share