NEW WHITLETTS ROAD CAMERA
A traffic signal enforcement camera site in Ayr that has been operating as a deterrent to red light running since 2003 has been upgraded with new digital technology and will now be able to detect vehicles speeding through the junction as well as those going through the red light.
The new generation safety camera, which is currently being installed on Whitletts Road opposite McDonalds, is operated by the Strathclyde Safety Camera Partnership, whose manager, Gladys Cadden, commented: “We have a number of cameras monitoring traffic signals around the West of Scotland and their wet-film technology is now becoming outdated. There is a significant difference with the digital replacement cameras in that they also have the ability to detect speeding vehicles. This is a major advance for road safety as it addresses the problem of drivers speeding up to beat the lights as well as those going through the signal. Clearly, the faster a vehicle is travelling, the more severe the impact in any resulting collision. ”
Inspector Drew Robertson of Strathclyde Police commented: “Red-light running is a road safety issue of real concern. In 2009, 111 people were injured in the Strathclyde Police area because of drivers going through a red light. With this new camera in place the message for drivers is clear – don’t go through the red light and don’t try to race it. Although this camera is only enforcing at Whitletts Road, a location which had suffered from a particularly serious crash history, the same principle applies at all traffic signals whether there are cameras or not.”
Councillor Peter Convery, South Ayrshire Council’s Portfolio Holder for Sustainability and the Environment, said: "Traffic signals are there for a reason - they help manage the flow of both traffic and pedestrians on our roads and they save lives. The changes to the traffic enforcement camera at Whitletts Road will help achieve both these objectives and I urge all drivers to make sure they make the right choice not just at Whitletts Road but at every traffic signal.
"Taking a chance is just not worth it - drive safely and make sure you don't become just another statistic on our roads."
Posters are being distributed widely in the area - please see link on right to view poster.