Drivers warned a new speed camera will be switched on this week

The camera has been placed where there's a history of injuries

Author: Rob WallerPublished 13th May 2024

Drivers are being warned Ayrshire's latest speed camera will be switched on this week, catching motorists breaking the limit at a spot where eight people have been hurt in crashes.

The fixed speed camera, and markings on the road, were installed a number of weeks ago, but until now the camera was hidden beneath a cover telling drivers it was not in use.

Now there has been an update from Safety Cameras Scotland which says enforcement will begin this week.

Placed to catch impatient drivers

The camera has been placed on the A760 on Stoneyholm Road, Kilbirnie, to monitor drivers as they head north towards Lochwinnoch.

The device is placed just a few hundred yards from where 30 mph limit ends and the national speed limit begins.

Safety Cameras Scotland says the location was highlighted as a result of 8 injury collisions over a 4 year period.

Further speed surveys showed that over 47% of traffic was travelling above the 30mph speed limit.

It comes as more than 100 cameras are switched off.

Local safety concerns

The group says numerous concerns relating to speeding at this location have been raised with North Ayrshire Council and Police Scotland in recent years by the local community, and changes to road markings, and extra signs, have not changed driver behaviour.

Alan Bowater, West Safety Camera Manager said; ‘Drivers should be reminded that wherever you see one of our cameras it’s indicating that this area has a history of speed related collisions. People have been seriously injured or killed because of speeding.

"Driving can be unpredictable, but you can make a choice to reduce your speed and make the roads safer for everyone.

"The camera on Stoneyholm Road should influence drivers to make better decisions regarding their speed, for the safety of all road users. "

A spokesperson for North Ayrshire Council added “North Ayrshire Council support the installation of a fixed speed camera on Stoneyholm Road, Kilbirnie. The installation will play a key role in enhancing road safety, providing a safer environment to the benefit of the local community.”

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