Street to get new speed cameras to ‘improve road safety’

The installation is part of a special pilot program, with the cameras able to simultaneously detect both speeding and if a driver runs the red light. These special 'red light' and 'speed on green' cameras are being installed at the High Street junction in School Lane, Wargrave, one of three locations across the Thames Valley region selected for the pilot program. READ MORE: Section of M3 to close for the entire weekend for new footbridge[1]

Thames Valley Police noted that a "number of collisions have been reported here and there are ongoing community concerns about red-light running in this area". Detective Chief Inspector Justin Thomas, Joint Operations Head of Roads Policing said that road safety was a priority for the police and expressed hope that the cameras would protect people using the High Street Crossing reduce collisions at the Wargrave junction, where "red light jumping has become an issue". READ MORE: Gordon Ramsay spotted filming outside Reading Burger King[2]

He emphasised: "The consequences of jumping a red light where pedestrians are crossing has potentially fatal consequences.  "I would urge motorists to take extra care, slow down and never run the risk." READ MORE: The top five causes of car crashes across the region revealed[3]

Matt Gould, Head of Transport Planning at Wokingham Borough Council, said the council was "very pleased to see these cameras being installed" following concerns raised by residents. He continued: "These cameras mark a significant step forward in prioritising the safety of pedestrians and all road users in Wargrave. READ MORE: Thousands attend carnival celebrating Reading School's 900th anniversary[4]

"The installation of these new cameras directly addresses the community's long-standing concerns regarding the safety of the junction and the numerous reports of red light jumping."

Work to install the new camera system has begun.

References

1. ^ Section of M3 to close for the entire weekend for new footbridge (www.bracknellnews.co.uk)
2. ^ Gordon Ramsay spotted filming outside Reading Burger King (www.readingchronicle.co.uk)
3. ^ The top five causes of car crashes across the region revealed (www.readingchronicle.co.uk)
4. ^ Thousands attend carnival celebrating Reading School's 900th anniversary (www.readingchronicle.co.uk)