No to speed cameras? 

Swindon Council the first to make a stand against speed cameras

 

Gotcha!:  speed cameras in Swindon generated £252,300 in 2007-8

The debate over the use of speed cameras has stepped up a gear.

 

Swindon Borough Council have become the first local authority in the country to challenge their effectiveness in improving road safety.

 

And a decision will be made in the next six weeks whether to scrap them in the town completely.

 

"We believe there are other options open to us, such as traffic-calming and vehicle-activated speed signs," said councillor Peter Greenhlagh, lead member for transport policy.

 

"And that's why we are having a review.

 

"The Council receives none of the revenue generated by the cameras, which, I feel, is a blatant tax on the motorist."

 

The £400,000 the Council currently contribute to the Wiltshire & Swindon Safety Camera Partnership funds 16 fixed cameras, three red-light cameras and 11 mobile units.

 

Hitting back at the proposals, South Swindon MP Anne Snelgrove decribed the plans as 'playing politics with real lives'.

 

"The best speed camera is one that doesn't raise a penny, just saves lives," Ms Snelgove said.

 

What do you think?

 

Are speed cameras an 'unwanted tax on the motorist'? Or a proven improver of road safety?

 

We want your opinions.