There has been a concerning spike in the number of drivers caught exceeding the 20mph limit in Wales – but most motorists are still being warned rather than prosecuted. Most roads throughout Wales that were 30mph changed to 20mph last September.

It has proved controversial with protests and petitions against the change and polling showing it remains an unpopular policy. There has been a gentle approach to enforcement since the speed limit change with a greater focus on education rather than fines and penalty points, says North Wales Live.

But there was a change from March 18 – with more enforcement on new 20mph roads under the Operation Ugain scheme run by GoSafe Wales. This saw mobile speed cameras on new 20mph roads where speeding had been identified as an issue. It has meant a spike in the number of vehicles monitored and subsequently in those caught exceeding the limit. There were 24,714 checks in March – with 655 drivers over the current threshold limit of 26mph.

It compares to 272 drivers over the limit in January from 9,775 checks and 460 from 14,874 checks in February. It has meant a 97% compliance rate in each of the months.

The average speed offence last month was 28.5mph while the highest speed recorded was 45mph. Of those caught, 99% (649 drivers) had a short engagement session at the roadside – while just six drivers were prosecuted.

(Picture – Ian Cooper/North Wales Live)