Swindon begins 12-month trial with ANPR cameras to assess driving habits
Council aims to gather data for potential traffic safety improvements
Swindon Borough Council has commenced a 12-month trial using Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras installed at five locations to gather data on driving habits.
The trial follows successful completion of data collection and protection protocols, now allowing the council to collect speed and road data to better inform safety improvements.
Installed earlier this year, the cameras will aid officers in understanding traffic behavior, identifying persistent speeding patterns, and gathering additional evidence to enhance area safety.
Councillor Nick Gardiner, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, expressed satisfaction as the cameras go live for data collection.
He highlighted the importance of establishing data protections and policies before launching the trial to ensure integrity and efficacy.
Results will be evaluated after 12 months to assess the cameras' impact, guiding decisions on potential further deployment.
Any future use of ANPR cameras will require thorough assessment, official approvals, and funding considerations.
The cameras' findings will influence Swindon’s approach to supporting road safety and traffic management.