IN MAKING his case for more speed restriction signs in Norton Fitzwarren (Postbag, February 2), Mike Palmer does not help his cause by stating that ‘We in Norton have been asking for changes to get drivers of all vehicles to drive through Norton at under 30mph – something most refuse to do’.

In my experience, most drivers do take care and respect speed limits, and it is unfortunate that Mr Palmer chooses to tar most drivers with the same brush as those who are irresponsible.

Speed is an emotive subject and I have attended many Norton Fitzwarren Parish Council meetings where the anti-speeding lobby has put forward what appear to be exaggerated estimates of speeding incidents.

Nevertheless, it is, of course, vitally important to minimise the risk to residents and property from vehicles that are obliged to travel through the village.

In many ways, the very nature of the main road through Norton Fitzwarren imposes its own restrictions on drivers with numerous bends and on-road parking requiring considerable care and attention.

In my view, adding further road signage may well be counterproductive with additional distractions to disrupt even the most careful drivers’ concentration.


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Perhaps technology could offer an alternative approach by developing an in-car device that would automatically warn drivers when they are approaching or are within a speed restriction area.

Warnings could be delivered vocally and conditioned by the vehicle’s current speed – e.g. ‘You are approaching a 30mph limit, please moderate your speed accordingly’.

Unfortunately, even this will not stop those who are intent on ignoring restrictions and have no regard for the potential harm their reckless actions may cause.

Other than subsequent prosecution with appropriate serious penalties, there seems to be no way in which our streets can be made 100 per cent safe.

CHRIS TREBBLE
Norton Fitzwarren