04 Dec 2023
The sound of revving engines racing through the streets of St Albans is increasingly commonplace these days – with speeding drivers striving to beat the traffic lights or get through roadworks with little thought for pedestrians, cyclists or other motorists.
But what, if anything, can be done to stop them? The introduction of new 20mph speed limits in parts of the city seem like more of a challenge than a deterrent.
Inspector Paul Caro of St Albans Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) said: “Speeding enforcement is carried out by our SNT who frequently look to target areas of hot spots identified.
“I would encourage the public to use the echo platform to give feedback if there are areas of concern to flag for focus. We also have a van funded by the Police and Crime Commissioner which is deployed to tackle the issue as well as officers from the Special Constabulary who are trained.
“Red light violations will be dealt with by officers who witness it taking place on patrol and will likely result in points on your driving licence and a fine. Some junctions are covered with cameras for this offence.”
Recognising the ongoing problem with speeding and residents’ concerns about the issue, local Liberal Democrat councillors have tasked the police with tackling speeding at up to six specific locations in St Albans, including Harpenden Road, St Albans Road, Beaconsfield Road and Beaumont Avenue.
Councillors have asked for the increased deployment of mobile speed vans and radar guns to try and slow drivers
down.
Cllr Helen Campbell, who represents Bernards Heath on SADC and St Albans North on HCC, said: “Residents frequently highlight speeding and road safety generally as significant issues of concern to them.
“Speeding is selfish and dangerous, it can injure, it can change lives for the worse, and it can kill. We want to help all road users, and especially pedestrians and cyclists, feel safer and reducing vehicle speeds is key to that.”
Council leader Cllr Chris White, who represents Clarence for SADC and St Albans Central for HCC, added: “In identifying this as a priority for the police to focus
resources on, we’re listening to residents and taking action and we look forward to working with the police to bring down speeds and make our roads safer for all.
‘’As part of these efforts, we will be demanding explanations from the office of the Police and Crime Commissioner as to why the radar guns in St Albans are apparently not fully functioning. As usual, Conservatives are leaving the police under resourced and under-funded.”
