A new scheme designed to help keep roads in a Peterborough neighbourhood safe has been set up – with volunteers monitoring drivers’ speeds around their homes.

A new Community Speed Watch group has been launched in Paston and Walton, giving local residents the opportunity to play an active part in improving road safety in their neighbourhood.

The group is the first Community Speed Watch specifically established for Paston and Walton and is run by Community Speed Watch Coordinator Andrew Macfarlaine.

Andrew set up the group following concerns from residents about speeding vehicles on roads throughout the area. The initiative brings local volunteers together to monitor vehicle speeds, raise awareness and encourage motorists to slow down.

The scheme aims to reduce speeding on the roads

placeholder image — The scheme aims to reduce speeding on the roads

He said: “Residents regularly raise concerns about speeding in our area, so I wanted to do something positive about it rather than just complain.

“Community Speed Watch gives residents the opportunity to get involved and make a difference themselves. Each session is only around an hour, and the more volunteers we have, the more locations we can cover.

“This isn't about targeting motorists. It's about encouraging people to think about their speed and making our roads safer for residents, pedestrians, children and everyone who uses them.”

Community Speed Watch is a police-supported initiative where trained volunteers monitor vehicle speeds from approved locations. Its purpose is not simply to catch speeding motorists, but to educate drivers, encourage responsible driving and help make residential roads safer.

The Paston and Walton group has already carried out sessions at a number of locations, including Paston Ridings, Gunthorpe Road and Fulbridge Road.

During a recent session on Fulbridge Road, volunteers monitored 426 vehicles, with five drivers recorded exceeding the speed limit.

Andrew is now hoping more residents from Paston and Walton will volunteer and help the group continue to grow.

He added: “I would like to thank everyone who has volunteered and supported us so far. Giving up just an hour of your time can help us maintain a visible presence and hopefully encourage safer driving throughout our community.”

Anyone living in Paston or Walton who would like to volunteer with the Community Speed Watch group is encouraged to get in touch by visiting https://www.facebook.com/groups/pastonwaltoncsw