20mph and Next Steps – Speedwatch

The 20mph signs and most of the roundels are now in place with the exception of the High Street – as the road is narrow, traffic management is required and these will be completed at a later date.  A number of people have commented that not everyone is sticking to the new speed limit and it is recognised that when a reduced speed limit is implemented, it can take time for people to adjust.  The first step in increasing awareness is to set up a local Speedwatch group, although there are potentially other options for example, fixed speeding cameras, speed bumps, these are expensive and unlikely to be agreed to by local residents or Kent Highways until a Speedwatch has been tried. 

We are putting out a call for people to get involved by forming a Speedwatch group.  If you’ve voiced an opinion that ‘something must be done’ then why not do something yourself?  The Parish Council will support but will not set up a group as this needs to be genuinely community led.  

A group usually needs a minimum of 6 people who need to register and complete the on-line training including a ‘test’. You can attempt the test as many times as needed but most people do so on the first or second attempt.  Speedwatch is about education rather than enforcement although the police will take some action against repeat offenders. The scheme is coordinated by the police and they provide insurance, hi-vis jackets etc.  It does work if done regularly for a while and once a week is suggested as a minimum frequency during an ‘active’ phase.  At least 2 people need to work at one time for a maximum of 1 hour in sites approved by the police.  This is why at least 6 people are felt to be the minimum needed but clearly more would spread the load.  

Kent Police Speedwatch website is the place to look for current details and this contains a link to the community Speedwatch website where you register and sign up for training