Inoperative speed cameras in Romsey removed for safety

Two of the cameras on Winchester Road, one by the Hunters Inn and one by the Mandarin Chef, were removed on Tuesday, October 28, after being identified as a risk.

Cllr Nick Adams-King said on Facebook: "They were removed yesterday as their columns were corroding. The cameras had not operated for many years but have been left in place as a deterrent and are only removed when their safety inspections identify them as becoming a risk, as the structures holding them deteriorate.

Speed cameras on Winchester Road (Image: Google)

"Donna Jones the PCC is looking into bringing static cameras back through her road safety funding - although they will not necessarily be in the same places as the old ones."

PCC Donna Jones has recently launched a new £500,000 funding initiative to help reduce death and serious injuries on Hampshire's roads. Ms Jones is currently taking applications of up to £20,000 for projects or items demonstrating how they can promote safer roads and support victims. The reintroduction of static cameras has been discussed since the initiative started.

In the comments of Cllr Adams-King's post, residents have expressed concerns that they will see an increase in dangerous driving into the residential area.

The cameras, although out of use, are said to have worked as a deterrent to people speeding on the 30 mph road into Crampmoor.

Speaking to the Advertiser, Cllr John Parker, of Romsey Town Council and TVBC, said: "I think cameras have been removed from a number of other areas as well. I do not know why they have gone. I assumed it was a change of policy, but it hasn't been explained to us."

Cllr Sandra Gidley, also of RTC and TVBC, said: "As someone who was positive about their installation, I don't know what has happened to them. It is a shame, because they were an active deterrent. It is a stretch of road that, before them, had a lot of accidents."