Devon & Cornwall Police News site

Police recently carried out an operation in St Austell following concerns raised by the local community about dangerous driving in the area.

Two police vans equipped with high-tech cameras were deployed to prime locations on roads with speed limits of 20, 30, 40 and 60mph.

Neighbourhood police were joined by the road safety team in an effort to deter drivers from exceeding the limit and to keep people safe.

In the few hours of activity, 113 vehicles were recorded going above the enforcement threshold. 

“Speeding can kill. Whether you hurt yourself, another road user or a pedestrian – your actions can have severe consequences,” said Police Inspector Simon Andrews.

“That’s why operations like these are so important, especially when communities tell the police that they have real concerns about road safety in a particular neighbourhood.

“We know this doesn’t solve the issue completely, but we hope our presence has meant road users will be more considerate of their speed. I’d also like to thank the majority of drivers who kept to the speed limit.

“These types of operations can receive a bad reception, but if the consequence of deploying a speed camera van on the road means our actions will save a life now or in the future, then it’s absolutely worth it."

Inspector Andrews added: “So please, if you’re in a vehicle just be aware of your speed and don’t go above the limit. They’re not there to be a nuisance, they’re there to keep you and other people safe.

“Our officers will continue to deploy speed camera vans in new locations at different times of day. If you have any concerns about speeding, please come forward and report them to us. We’re taking robust action to keep our roads safe.”

Road safety remains a priority for Devon & Cornwall Police. There are five main causes of serious injuries and deaths on the region’s roads – known as the ‘fatal five’. This includes inappropriate or excessive speed, not wearing a seatbelt, driver distraction (including using a mobile phone), driving under the influence of drink or drugs and careless and inconsiderate driving.   

The minimum penalty for speeding is £100 fine and three points added to your licence. Receiving 12 or more points within three years may disqualify you from driving. 

If you have concerns about road safety in your area, please report it to the police: Report a crime | Devon & Cornwall Police.

If you’re a newly qualified driver and receive six points during the first two years after passing your test, your licence will automatically be cancelled (revoked). To get it back you’ll need to apply and pay for a new provisional licence and pass both theory and practical tests again.

Data for road collisions across Devon and Cornwall can be found on the Vision Zero website: Public Map