Speeding outside a Swindon primary school has fallen by 68 per cent following the installation of new road safety signage, according to Wiltshire Police.
The signs were introduced on Queens Drive outside Holy Cross Junior School after persistent speeding continued despite enforcement activity.
During 65 enforcement sessions over the past 12 months, an average of 50 drivers were caught speeding during each 20-minute session. In total, 5,149 motorists were recorded exceeding the 30mph speed limit.
A recent 20-minute enforcement session, carried out since the new signage was installed, saw just 16 drivers caught speeding.
Wiltshire Police says the results represent a 68 per cent reduction and provide early evidence that the additional signage is having an impact.
Speed Enforcement Officer Andy said the aim of enforcement was to improve road safety rather than simply catch motorists.
“We don’t want to catch people speeding; we want people to use the roads safely. Speed limits are set for a reason and exceeding them is illegal,” he said.
The section of Queens Drive is directly outside Holy Cross Junior School and is also close to an ambulance station and a day hub supporting vulnerable and homeless adults.
“With so many people regularly using this area, it is vital that motorists take extra care,” Andy said.
“I am cautiously optimistic that the new signage is making a difference, with the latest results showing a significant reduction in the number of drivers speeding outside the school.”
The new signs, installed by Swindon Borough Council, monitor approaching vehicles in both directions and display their speed when they are travelling above the 30mph limit.
Wiltshire Police and the council worked with the local community to introduce the additional measures after concerns that existing signage was not sufficient to deter speeding.
There have also been reports that some satellite navigation systems incorrectly show Queens Drive as a 40mph route, despite the speed limit having been reduced to 30mph in 2022.
Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, Cllr Nick Gardiner, said the results showed the potential impact of targeted road safety measures.
“The safety of children, parents and all road users around Holy Cross School is a priority, which is why we worked closely with Wiltshire Police and the local community to install the new Speed Indicator Device and supporting signage,” he said.
Headteacher Sam Dowdeswell said the school was grateful to everyone involved.
“The safety of our pupils is always our highest priority, and anything that helps encourage drivers to reduce their speed and take extra care around our school is very welcome,” she said.
Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson also welcomed the results, saying keeping people safe around schools remained a priority within his Police and Crime Plan.
Wiltshire Police’s Speed Enforcement Officers target the “Fatal Five” factors linked to serious collisions: speeding, mobile phone use, failing to wear a seatbelt, drink and drug driving, and careless or distracted driving.
Enforcement locations are selected using risk-based analysis, with officers concentrating on areas where the potential for serious harm is considered greatest.
Police say the latest figures are encouraging but motorists are still being urged to observe the 30mph limit on Queens Drive.
The minimum penalty for speeding is a £100 fixed penalty notice and three penalty points. Drivers who accumulate 12 or more penalty points within three years may face disqualification from driving.
