by Chris Ashmore
THE installation of what are known as “average speed cameras” could have a major impact on reducing speeding through the centre of Kilmacrennan – that’s the view of Councillor Michael McBride.
The crossroads in the heart of the village is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous in the county, and according to Cllr McBride “it is nothing short of maybe a miracle that there have been no fatalities to date”.
Proposing that Donegal County Council and Transport Infrastructure Ireland would consider the installation of average speed cameras, he said: “We have to look at every avenue that is open to us. My belief is that average speed cameras are the most effective tool. It is only a matter of time before there is a fatality.”
In response to his motion at the January meeting of Letterkenny-Milford Municipal District Council, Cllr McBride was told that the provision of speed cameras is controlled and managed by An Garda Siochana, and that representations regarding locations should be made to Garda headquarters.
Cllr McBride felt that there is “a great case to be made for it” and asked that the Council write to An Garda Siochana “to put us at the front of the queue”.
He added: “it is the only solution that I can see. Ramps do not seem to be an option (it is a National Primary Route) and while there has been talk about traffic lights nothing has happened.”
Cllr McBride also revealed that he has done some research into average speed cameras. One UK survey found a 36 per cent decrease in fatal accidents where they have been installed while a study by the London School of Economics revealed a 58-68% reduction in accidents within 500 metres after cameras were put in.
Average speed cameras measure vehicle speeds over a set distance rather than at a single point. This method prevents drivers from slowing only when approaching a camera, promoting a steadier traffic flow.
Average speed cameras use Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology to record the time, date, and location of each vehicle that passes through. If a vehicle reaches the next camera too quickly, this information is processed for enforcement, indicating a potential speeding violation.
Penalties for speeding drivers caught exceeding speed limits by these cameras include fines up to €160 and the motorist can accrue three penalty points on their licence. If you fail to pay the fine within the stipulated 28 days, it increases to €240.
