Residents Invited to Comment on A3083 Average Speed Camera Proposals

Residents are being asked to give their views on plans to introduce average speed cameras on a stretch of the A3083 in Helston.

The proposals focus on the section of road running alongside RNAS Culdrose, where the speed limit could be reduced from 60mph to 50mph. The consultation is open until 19th March 2026.

Why the changes are being proposed

The location has seen several fatal road collisions in recent years. Inquests have identified excess speed as a contributory factor.

Following the last fatal collision, almost 2,000 residents signed a petition calling for speed cameras on the road. After an inquest in November 2025, Cornwall Coroner Guy Davies stated that action was needed to prevent further loss of life.

Cornwall Council says the proposal has arisen from concerns raised by local stakeholders and the wider community about the frequency and severity of road accidents linked to vehicles exceeding the national speed limit.

What the scheme would involve

If approved, the works would include installing average speed cameras and lowering the speed limit from 60mph to 50mph in the area where the cameras are located.

New signs would also be put in place to ensure the legality of the new limit and to provide clear warning of the average speed camera system, with the aim of maximising compliance.

The proposed safety measures would be jointly funded by Cornwall Council and the Vision Zero South West Partnership.

What those involved are saying

Dan Rogerson, Cornwall Council cabinet member for transport, said:

“One person killed on our roads is one too many. On this particular stretch, several young people have had their lives cut tragically short, and others have suffered serious injuries.

“This is a scheme that we have wanted to bring forward for some time and with joint funding secured from Vision Zero South West and ongoing support from RNAS Culdrose, we are now in a position to bring these proposals to consultation.

“Speed data shows that the majority of drivers are travelling at, or below, 52mph along this section of road which suggests that lowering the limit is unlikely to affect journey times. Where it will make a difference is safety – this is a wide road where travelling at an inappropriate speed can have catastrophic consequences. Introducing cameras and a lower speed limit will help reduce the likelihood of further tragedies.”

Adrian Leisk, Head of Road Safety at Devon & Cornwall Police, added:

“Sadly there have been numerous serious and fatal collisions on this road which have involved excess speed and the community has rightly called for action.

“Average Speed Camera systems are extremely effective at lowering speeds. Our sites throughout Devon & Cornwall have a compliance rate of over 99%.

“We are proud to be working with Cornwall Council to help fund this scheme, which we believe will save lives in this area.”

Have your say

Cornwall Council says all feedback will be collated and considered before a final decision is made.

Residents can view the full proposals and take part in the consultation via the council’s website: https://letstalk.cornwall.gov.uk/culdrose-a3083-safety-improvements-average-speed-cameras