There has been a significant increase in the number of people caught breaking the 20mph speed limit in one part of Wales over just a month. The figures reveal a nearly six-fold rise in offenders between north Wales and mid and south Wales. In June, there were 5,711 offences recorded in mid and south Wales, which then escalated to 6,002 in July. Similarly, the number of those caught in north Wales surged from 892 in June to 5,199 in July.
Not all the offences result in fines as alternatives are being provided, such as the roadside educational courses under Operation Ugain. Police and fire service personnel conduct enforcement sessions at the roadside, offering education instead of immediate fines to eligible drivers. Some individuals may be referred to court or receive exemptions from penalties.
In July, the average speed recorded in north Wales decreased to 28.8mph from 32.4mph the previous month. Conversely, in mid and south Wales, the average speed slightly increased to 28.4mph, up from 28.1mph in the preceding month. As part of Operation Ugain, staff monitored 192,825 vehicles in 20mph zones and delivered 6,747 free engagement sessions as an alternative to prosecution, as reported by GoSafe.
Authorities highlight that the surge in offences in north Wales may be attributed to the conclusion of the period where advice letters replaced fines and the reintroduction of multiple mobile enforcement sites in risky areas. The enforcement sites are established where speed is a concern due to safety risks, past collisions, or community requests for enforcement.
Additionally, GoSafe reports that speeding offences in built-up areas have decreased by 29% in July 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. The recorded speeding offences in July on 20mph and 30mph roads totalled 14,421, down from 20,303 in July 2023. The combined offences on these roads in July 2024, including those observed by Operation Ugain teams, were 14,421.
Despite the deployment of additional engagement teams nationally, the number of offences in July 2024 was 29% lower than in July 2023. Published speed data from Agilysis and Transport for Wales (TfW) indicates a decrease in driving speeds. Moreover, provisional police-recorded collision data shows a 16% reduction in the total number of individuals killed or injured on Welsh roads compared to the same period in 2023.
As the enforcement efforts continue to evolve and adapt, organisations like GoSafe emphasise ongoing initiatives to promote road safety and compliance with speed limits in Wales.