Community speed watch launched in Milnrow

Resident Ron Horton, holding the recording equipment, alongside Councillor Irene Davidson and PCSO Angela Smith

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A Community Speed Watch scheme is being piloted in Milnrow after police received a high number of complaints regarding speeding and heavy traffic on Kiln Lane.

A group of five local residents have volunteered to take part and will be trained how to use speed recording equipment funded by the council, and will work shifts to monitor the road.

They will make a note of any speeding vehicles, and this information will be passed on to police so officers can better understand the extent of the problem and take any action necessary.

Ron Horton, who lives at 84 Kiln Lane, explained why he has got involved with the scheme.

He said: “I used to live here before and moving back was the biggest mistake I ever made. The house is unsellable because of the traffic and speeding. We have had them [vehicles] come through the wall and different things. Next door have had three cars through in the last eight years.

“I hope we can get some traffic calming and that this makes a difference. I got involved with this because I’m really fed up.

"I’m hopeful things will improve as it is horrendous.”

Inspector Jem Davies of the Pennine Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “Residents told us clearly that they aren’t happy about the speeds some vehicles are travelling in the area, and we believe that this scheme will help.

“Those taking part are happy to volunteer their time, and we will ensure they are properly trained and maintain close contact with them.

“Motorists need to understand that they will be prosecuted if found to be speeding, no matter where the offence takes place.”

Stuart Howarth, a Highways Casualty Reduction Officer at Rochdale Borough Council’s Impact Partnership, added: “This highly visible community initiative should encourage drivers to take their foot off the accelerator and respect speed limits in residential areas.

"An extra few miles an hour when driving won’t cut journey times much, but can be the difference between life and death for pedestrians.”

It is hoped the initiative will be taken up in other areas of the borough in the near future.