Ross citizens speedwatch brings dramatic results
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A TRAIL-blazing anti-speeding campaign has brought major results for a small Black Isle community.
Fed up local residents turned traffic watchers, with the blessing of police, to help crack down on motorists speeding through Culbokie.
Vehicle speeds were recorded by a group of volunteers and shared with Police Scotland and Highland Council for verification.
Police revealed today that, with comparison to data from last year, there has been a reduction of over 90% in the number of vehicles speeding at over 40mph and a 60% reduction in speeds over 35mph.
The idea was the brainchild of Bruce Morrison, chairman of Ferintosh Community Council (FCC).
Mr Morrison said: "Congratulations and thanks to all residents in the Culbokie area!
"Having raised your concerns about speeding in Culbokie, you have supported FCC’s Culbokie Speedwatch initiative not only by coming forward as volunteers but also by slowing down.
"The results of the trial have been dramatic, with very large reductions in the numbers of speeding vehicles coming into the village. It is so encouraging to be able to demonstrate that those of us living in communities can begin to resolve our own seemingly intractable concerns.
"This trial has also shown that our public services, Police Scotland and Highland Council, not only respond to our concerns but also become part of the team that creates improvement. "Culbokie Speedwatch will now become a regular service to the community, provided by volunteer residents and supported by Police Scotland".
Mr Morrison said if residents in other parts of Culbokie or in other settlements in the FCC area were interested in having the Speedwatch scheme extended to their own area, he would be willing to help.
Mr Morrison can be contacted on 01349 877127.
Area Inspector Nick MacRae added: "We are delighted that the initiative has been a resounding success in encouraging drivers to change their behaviour when in and around the village. The noted reductions in speeding are a great step forward and will hopefully encourage other communities to get on board to make villages and towns safer across the Highlands.
"The dedication of the volunteers is to be commended and is an excellent example of community recognising a safety issue and working together with police to make a difference and to help keep everyone safe.
"Officers will continue to fully support the initiative and to carry out speed enforcement work as is our responsibility."
