Cameras take support role in bigger picture

Medway Council, one of five partners in the Kent and Medway Safety Camera Partnership (K&MSCP), has reduced Killed or Seriously Injured (KSI) figures using a variety of initiatives. The installation of safety cameras at sites across Kent and Medway has reduced KSI figures by 54%. Funding for cameras is provided by the partnership via Government grants, but the highway authorities decide on their location. Medway's Road Safety Team has erected cameras at 10 fixed sites, but spent more on improvements in road layouts and signing. Engineering improvements are selected by assessment of first year rate of return with the price of the work compared to a predicted saving in accident costs. Improvements to a 1.7km stretch of Princes Avenue in Walderslade are described. Road safety initiatives include education efforts with local schools and the SAFE (Stop Accidents for Ever) communication campaign.