Dorset's Speed Indicator Device scheme marks a decade
The flashing signs have been credited with getting drivers to slow down
A community scheme to get drivers to slow down in Dorset's towns and villages is marking its 10th anniversary.
SIDS or Speed Indictor Devices are temporary signs, initially provided by Dorset Council, which light up to show drivers how fast they're going.
In one Dorset village, they doubled the number of vehicles travelling under the speed limit per day.
Since in started, 77 communities have signed up for SIDS which have been placed in 230 locations.
Cllr Ray Bryan, Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said:
“I am delighted this scheme has been a success and grown hugely over the past 10 years.
“The figures show the impact the devices have 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 Joe and Rob who took the opportunity to start the scheme and all the communities who are helping to make a difference and make our roads safer.”
Wool Parish Council is one council that has seen the benefit of the devices. They say:
“Every flash of a Speed Indicator Device is a silent reminder to slow down, drive safely, and protect lives.
“We installed two SIDs across four locations in 2019 and they have been enormously successful, prompting drivers to think about their speed.”
Dorset Council oversees the setting up of new SID sites, providing risk assessments and training.
Parish and town councils then fund their local programme, owning the devices and being responsible for deploying them.