STOKE AREA SPEED CAMERAS TO BE ACTIVATED ON JUNE 12

20mph signs in the new camera controlled zone

- By WILLIAM TELFORD

PLYMOUTH'S controversial new 20mph zone will be activated next week. Cameras will be activated when the speed limit is reduced from 30mph in more than 20 streets in Stoke on Thursday, June 12.

The scheme, which has cost the council £125,000, was supposed to be in force in April but has been delayed.

The council says it is part of a scheme to make it safer for children travelling to school, which will also include a new parallel - pedestrian and cycle - zebra crossing on Mill Bridge, linking Stonehouse Creek to Victoria Park. Construction of the crossing is near completion and it is expected to open within the next couple of weeks.

Enforcement cameras have been installed and the council is continuing to put up 20mph signs and paint road markings. Advanced warning signs will be in place before the new speed limit becomes enforceable to let drivers know they are being monitored.

The council has repeatedly stressed that the cameras will be “average speed cameras”. The council said speed measurement begins when a vehicle passes a camera, which records the number plate together with a time stamp. When the vehicle exits the road section, the number plate is re-captured by an average speed camera.