New ANPR cameras are set to be installed in Swindon. The announcement comes 15 years after the Borough Council became the first local authority in England to switched off its fixed speed cameras amid claims that they did not lower the number of accidents on roads. The new scheme will see ANPR devices trialled at five locations, the BBC reports.

Councillor Chris Watts said:

“While these first cameras are only a trial, I’m hopeful it will be a success, and we can bring more to the borough to make sure we catch those that flaunt the speed limits.”

In 2009, the town dismantled its speed cameras after the council concluded they were ineffective in reducing road traffic accidents, stating that only 6% of incidents were attributed to speeding.

Now, in a bid to make roads safer, the authority is installing five cameras at Okus Road, Akers Way, Grange Drive, Croft Road and Homington Avenue.

As part of the pilot scheme, any driver caught speeding could be sent a warning letter and have their details shared with police.

A council spokesperson said the devices are not technically speed cameras as they do not automatically give out punishments.

But “should the police wish to take action” then that could result in “fines or further punishment”, the spokesperson added.

(Pictures: Swindon Borough Council)