Shoppers in Swindon town centre this morning may notice some unusual signage being installed that could change the way people move through the town.
In what is being described as a potential UK first, plans have emerged suggesting that pedestrian speed limits could soon be enforced.
Swindon Borough Council has revealed proposals to install a number of fixed cameras along some of the busiest walking routes, including areas near The Parade and Regent Street, in an effort to tackle what has been described as “excessive pedestrian speed”.
According to the council, the scheme is designed to improve safety in high-footfall areas, particularly during peak shopping hours and weekend events. The cameras, similar in appearance to roadside speed enforcement devices, would monitor walking pace and issue fines to those exceeding a proposed limit of 4 miles per hour.
A spokesperson for the council explained: “There has been a noticeable increase in near-misses involving fast-moving pedestrians, particularly in crowded areas. This initiative is about making the town centre a safer and more enjoyable space for everyone.”
Under the proposed system, anyone caught exceeding the speed limit could face an on-the-spot fine of up to £60, with repeat offenders potentially required to attend a “safe walking awareness course”.
Early reaction from locals has been mixed. Some have welcomed the idea as a quirky but potentially useful safety measure, while others have questioned how it could realistically be enforced.
One shopper commented: “It sounds a bit over the top. Most people are just trying to get from one place to another, especially when it’s busy.”
Another added: “If it stops people barging through crowds, maybe it’s not such a bad idea — but it does feel a bit far-fetched.”
The council has stated that, if approved, the trial could begin later this year, with several locations already under consideration.
