HUNDREDS of fewer drivers are breaking speed limits in 45 communities across Dorset thanks to a scheme that aims to curb speeding motorists and improve road safety.
Dorset Council's community Speed Indicator Device (SID) programme has installed signs at 127 locations across the county. The signs display the speed of oncoming vehicles in a bid to raise drivers’ awareness of local speed limits.
The council also states the signs are proven to reduce traffic speeds when used at appropriate locations.
Dorset Council has worked with a number of local councils and organisations, including Dorchester Town Council, Bridport Town Council, Charminster Parish Council, Gillingham Town Council, Lyme Regis Parish Council and Sherborne Town Council.
A SID sign recently deployed on A352 Wareham Road in Wool has already proven successful in tackling speeding. Before the SID was installed, on average 569 vehicles were travelling over 35mph between 7am and 7pm daily, which reduced to 142 after it was put in place.
An average of 160 vehicles were travelling over 40mph between 7am and 7pm on the same stretch, which dropped to 31.
Dorset Highways oversees the setting up of new sites, providing risk assessments and training, with parish and town councils funding their local programme, owning the devices and being responsible for deploying them.
Councillor Ray Bryan, portfolio holder for highways, travel and environment, said: “By working together with parish and town councils, this community-based initiative has expanded and become more responsive to local needs.
“These displays have a measurable impact on reducing traffic speeds, something many communities are concerned about, and they contribute towards changing driver behaviour through our towns and villages.
“My thanks to all the communities who have worked hard on schemes in their area – you’ve made a real difference and helped make our roads safer.”
Gillingham Town Council said the signs are 'very useful in encouraging drivers to keep to the speed limit and show due respect to the residents of our town.'
A spokesman for Wool Parish Council said: "We purchased a SID in an attempt to discourage speeding at four hotspots in the Parish. It was so successful that we bought a second SID very soon after.
"Once the SID is activated, you can see the effect on the traffic in a matter of seconds. When used in a suitable location, SIDs are a very effective way to deter drivers from speeding."
"We are pleased with the deterrent effect the SID is having on drivers speeding into the village. Residents have reported noticeable effect when the SID is located at their end of the village. Regular rotation between sites helps to keep the message fresh in drivers’ minds."
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