The principle aim of using safety cameras is to reduce the number of casualties on our roads. We are therefore pleased that camera education and camera enforcement initiatives in Avon and Somerset have successfully contributed to a reduction in road casualties in South Gloucestershire for the fourthconsecutive year.
Who installs the cameras?
In April 2007 the four authorities of South Gloucestershire, Bristol City, Bath and North East Somerset and North Somerset joined together to form the West of England Road Safety Partnership (WoERSP).
On 1st April 2007 the WoERSP commissioned Safecam to undertake camera enforcement work on its behalf. Safecam is based in Taunton, Somerset and carries out camera enforcement for the whole of the Avon and Somerset police force area.
What's the council's involvement?
South Gloucestershire Council is one of a number of partners in the West of England Road Safety Partnership. The partnership includes other local authorities, local health authorities, the police, magistrates courts service, the Crown Prosecution service and the Highways Agency.
Have cameras helped reduce casualties?
Cameras work by slowing the speed of traffic and are an important way of reducing road casualties. In general, casualties at camera sites across the WoERSP area reduced by about 2.6% per year between 2002 and 2006. This is equal to a reduction of about 36 casualties per year.
How can I find out more?
To find out more about the West of England Road Safety Partnership and its work, visit the Safecam website (see 'Other websites' on the right-hand side of this page )or write to Safecam, County Hall, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 4DY.