Cumbrian Roads to Receive 19 New Speed Cameras After Safety Review

Following a review of collisions on two roads in Cumbria, 19 new average speed cameras are set to be installed. These initiatives will introduce 15 cameras along the A590, specifically between Ayside and Brettargh Holt roundabout, with an additional four planned for the A66, covering the stretch from Dubwath to Cockermouth. National Highways stated that the project, carrying a total cost of £2.4m, was initiated after an assessment of “collision data.” Diana Parums, representing Embleton Parish Council, an entity that has previously voiced concerns regarding speeding on the A66, expressed that she “warmly welcomed” the cameras. She commented, “We’ve had so many problems with speeding, particularly with motorbikes, so anything that can change that is really, really good.” Parums further added, “I’ve got concerns about the location of one of the cameras and there is always the worry that it’ll drive traffic on to side roads, but overall this is a positive step.” Motorists are being alerted to forthcoming roadworks during the camera installation process. National Highways indicated that operations would occur either overnight or during non-peak times, specifically between 09:00 and 15:00 GMT. The portion of the work on the A66, priced at £800,000, is anticipated to conclude by the end of January, including a scheduled pause over the Christmas holiday period. Amy Gaskell, a project manager for National Highways, stated: “We’re always exploring ways to improve safety on our roads.” She elaborated, “Using collision data, we’ve identified sections of the A590 and the A66 which we think will benefit from measures to slow down drivers. It’s for their own safety and the safety of other road users including local residents.” Follow BBC Cumbria on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram. Send your story ideas to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk.Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.