NEW camera equipment that will form part of wider efforts to tackle antisocial drivers and make the Island’s roads safer is “on track for deployment” by the end of the year, States police have confirmed.
The force said that officers were “currently undergoing training” to support the rollout of the new equipment.
Police chief Robin Smith had previously revealed that a mobile speed camera was likely to be operational in Jersey this year.
And Assistant Home Affairs Minister Richard Vibert told States Members in March that the Island was due to take delivery of a “new speed detection device”.
In an update, the States police said that: “The new safety camera remains on track for deployment by the end of the year, with SOJP officers currently undergoing training to support its rollout.”
The statement continued: “We’re grateful for the continued support from Infrastructure and Environment, and Minister for Infrastructure Andy Jehan, who are playing a vital role in sourcing and delivery.
“The safety camera forms part of the government’s Collision and Casualty Reduction Plan – a wider commitment to making Jersey’s roads safer and tackling antisocial drivers, who are disrupting our community and putting their lives, and others, at risk.”
Published earlier this year, the Collision and Casualty Reduction Plan included a section about using technology to address “high-speed, high-risk drivers”.
It stated: “Tools like safety cameras, which can automate speed enforcement, can help identify inappropriate speeds and driving behaviour as well as habitual high-speed offenders.
“By focusing enforcement on areas with the greatest risk, we can create a strong deterrent effect that encourages responsible driving across the network.”
Grouville Constable Mark Labey, who is vice-chair of the Children, Education and Home Affairs Scrutiny Panel, said that the new camera had been discussed at a recent briefing.
“I’m very much of the opinion that, especially throughout the rural parishes, we would be very grateful for the use of this camera – that could pop up basically anywhere – and hopefully it will change the culture of speeding drivers as the years go on,” he added.
