More than 800 speeding drivers across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight have been caught under a new road safety approach.
Funding from Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones has equipped two specialist motorcyclists with speed cameras, allowing officers to reach residential roads that camera vans can’t access.
It means targeted patrols now cover more neighbourhood streets under a new Safer Roads initiative.
PS Jamie Dobson, Road Safety Sergeant for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary Roads Policing Unit, said: “Sadly, our teams see every day the devastating impact that collisions have on those involved and the ripple effect that has on communities, whether that is due to speeding, drink or drugs, no seatbelts or inattention.
“We want everyone to feel safe on all roads, whether that is driving to work, dropping your children off at school, or just walking around your neighbourhood.
“Our teams are out every day making our roads safer but now we will have a particular focus and individualised plans for residential and rural areas, as well as our main arterial routes.
“Supported by these new motorbikes, we will ensure that our teams can get to the more hard-to-reach roads, that our speed camera vans are just too big for.
“This new collaborative approach is targeting specific roads our residents have raised concerns about and some of the recorded speeds we have already seen have been alarmingly high.
“But while we will work around the clock to target motorists committing road-related offences, using a variety of tactics, including drones, we know our work in isolation will not resolve the issues.
“That’s why we hope that this joined-up initiative, with the Police and Crime Commissioner and our partners taking the lead in other key areas to support our safer roads mission, will result in real results for our communities.”
PCC Donna Jones added: “Speeding and dangerous driving are one of the biggest concerns I hear from residents, especially in rural and residential areas. Over 55% of people who responded to my Police and Crime Plan consultation told me tackling road safety must be a priority, and I’ve listened.
"The new Safer Roads initiative strengthens the Roads Policing Unit and means officers can now target the places where speeding, dangerous driving, and anti-social use of vehicles like illegal car meets are putting lives at risk and causing disruption to communities.
"Every serious injury or death on our roads is one too many. This is about protecting families, saving lives, and making sure every road, from busy towns to quiet villages, is safer for everyone."
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