Speed cameras to be upgraded in NI

Anti-speed surveillance cameras are set to be upgraded after a significant drop in fatalities on roads where they are used in Northern Ireland, it emerged today.

Tests on more advanced technology could begin before the end of the year in a new police move to reduce the level of carnage.

Deaths and serious injuries dropped by 27% since July last year after the introduction of the four fixed and eight mobile cameras.

The new equipment will be able to detect or monitor average speeds while the fixed cameras are to be developed to detect in either direction, police said.

Superintendent Ian Hamill, head of the road policing development branch said he was encouraged by the fall in fatalities and serious injuries.

But he added: “I am disappointed that, despite our efforts to publicise the introduction of the scheme and where the cameras will be used, there were over 15,000 motorists detected driving well in excess of the speed limit.”