Drivers in Birmingham are being warned that 'secret' speed cameras may be operating on roads where speed limits have recently been reduced to 30mph. Speed limits on most main roads around the city were recently cut from 40mph to 30mph to improve safety, and motorists may be unsure whether their speeds are being monitored.
Mobile speed camera vans active on new 30mph roads
A BirminghamLive investigation has found that police are likely monitoring these roads at certain times using marked speed camera vans, officially known as mobile units. These vans move around the region and observe traffic conditions, often at speeding hotspots not covered by fixed cameras. They have caught thousands of speeding drivers this year.
The research found that speed vans have visited several of the new 30mph roads this year. Theoretically, motorists could be penalised for driving at 31mph on roads that were 40mph just a few weeks ago, making it crucial to be aware of the new limits.
Specific roads and enforcement data
The affected roads include parts of the A34 Walsall Road, A4041 Queslett Road, A452 Chester Road, A38 Bristol Road South, and B4121 Shenley Lane. Hundreds of drivers have been caught speeding by the camera vans on these routes.
According to the investigation, 311 speeding offences were recorded this year on the A34 Walsall Road near Clivedon Avenue, and another 285 on the B4121 Shenley Lane. Officers may increase enforcement on the new 30mph roads to ensure motorists comply with the reduced limits.
Effectiveness of mobile speed cameras
Speed camera vans often prove more effective than fixed cameras because they move to different locations, and motorists never know when or where they will be. This reduces the likelihood of drivers slowing down only for known camera spots, giving officers a realistic view of ordinary traffic conditions.
Officers frequently return to the same spots weekly or monthly, and some knowledge among motorists about camera van locations can actually help enforcement, as locals who know the vans operate are more likely to adhere to speed limits.
