County drivers speeding less thanks to Dorset Council SID scheme

Drivers are hitting the brakes in more than 45 of Dorset's communitees, thanks to a Speed Indicator Device scheme.

Dorset Council have installed the devices to display the speed of oncoming vehicles and raise awareness of local speed limits.

But, some SID's will be removed in March 2021 following the success of the council's community-based scheme.

A SID recently deployed on A352 Wareham Road in Wool saw most drivers reducing their speed:

Before the SID on average 569 vehicles were travelling over 35mph between 7am and 7pm, during the SID placement this dropped to 142.

Before the SID on average 160 vehicles were travelling over 40mph between 7am and 7pm, during the SID placement this dropped to 31.

Cllr 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.”

There are currently 45 communities deploying SIDs at 127 locations in the Dorset Council area.

A spokesperson 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.”