by Rebecca Hannant
A new Speedwatch group has been launched in Withernsea in response to concerns about speeding vehicles.
The group was set up by South East Holderness ward councillor Jon Dimberline after a number of residents raised issues about unsafe driving on roads entering and leaving the town, including Hull Road, Holmpton Road, Hollym Road and Waxholme Road.
The scheme has eight police-trained volunteers who have been provided with police-approved equipment, including a calibrated speed gun and signage. The group has been carrying out operations in Hull Road in recent weeks, with Cllr Dimberline saying there have already been signs of improved driving behaviour.
He said the scheme was aimed at addressing excessive speeding rather than penalising drivers who are only slightly over the limit.
Cllr Dimberline said: “The purpose of Speedwatch is not to catch people out or issue lots of fines. I’m not a big fan of speed cameras where people are automatically fined for going a few miles an hour over the limit. However, I am concerned about the number of residents who have approached me about vehicles speeding both into and out of town.
“Can people be fined through Community Speedwatch? Possibly, yes, but that usually only happens with repeat offenders. In most cases, drivers will simply receive advice from the police asking them to slow down. The main purpose is raising awareness and reminding people that persistent speeding presents a real danger to road users, pedestrians and the wider community.
“We’ve had a lot of positive feedback and have had plenty of thumbs-up and waves from passing drivers, which shows that many people see this as a valuable initiative.”
The team is now looking for more volunteers and is also considering expanding operations to other areas such as Patrington and Ottringham.
Anyone interested can contact Cllr Dimberline for more information.