Over 100 Drivers Caught Speeding During Police Operation in St Austell

More than 100 motorists were recorded speeding in St Austell in a matter of hours during a targeted police operation prompted by community concerns.

High-Tech Vans, Prime Locations

Two police vans equipped with high-tech cameras were stationed at key locations across the town, covering roads with speed limits of 20, 30, 40 and 60mph. The operation was carried out by neighbourhood officers working alongside the road safety team.

The aim was simple: to keep people safe and discourage dangerous driving.

Speeding Data Revealed

In just a few hours, 113 vehicles were found exceeding the enforcement threshold.

“Speeding can kill. Whether you hurt yourself, another road user or a pedestrian – your actions can have severe consequences,” said Police Inspector Simon Andrews.

“That’s why operations like these are so important, especially when communities tell the police that they have real concerns about road safety in a particular neighbourhood.”

More to Come

Inspector Andrews added that while this single operation won’t solve the wider issue, it sends a clear message.

“We know this doesn’t solve the issue completely, but we hope our presence has meant road users will be more considerate of their speed. I’d also like to thank the majority of drivers who kept to the speed limit.”

“These types of operations can receive a bad reception, but if the consequence of deploying a speed camera van on the road means our actions will save a life now or in the future, then it’s absolutely worth it.”

Officers plan to continue deploying speed camera vans at new locations and different times.

“So please, if you’re in a vehicle just be aware of your speed and don’t go above the limit. They’re not there to be a nuisance, they’re there to keep you and other people safe,” he said.

“If you have any concerns about speeding, please come forward and report them to us. We’re taking robust action to keep our roads safe.”

Concerns about road safety can be reported at: Report a crime | Devon & Cornwall Police

The ‘Fatal Five’

Devon & Cornwall Police continue to focus on the ‘fatal five’ causes of serious injury and death on the region’s roads:

• Inappropriate or excessive speed

• Not wearing a seatbelt

• Driver distraction (including mobile phones)

• Driving under the influence of drink or drugs

• Careless or inconsiderate driving

The minimum penalty for speeding is a £100 fine and three points on your licence. Drivers who collect 12 or more points within three years risk being disqualified.

Newly qualified drivers can lose their licence altogether if they receive six points within two years of passing their test.

For local road collision data, visit the Vision Zero South West Public Map.