Safe Speed Forums

WE don't hide speed cameras behind bushes!

That was the claim made by the Mid and South Wales Safety Camera Partnership last week after being accused of using cunning tactics to catch out speeding motorists.

But last night, the partnership found itself at the centre of another speed trap after Wales on Sunday was passed this photo of a speed camera van in "hiding".

Now, we want YOU to decide whether our road safety chiefs got it right.

Eagle-eyed Bridgend resident Paul Rabone was furious on spotting a camera van parked at the intersection of Cowbridge and Tondu Road, Bridgend, at 11.24am last Friday.

His photo clearly shows the van catching motorists whilst parked in a dip be-hind a bush and railings in Bridgend.

Mr Rabone claims the van is clearly hiding and contacted us after reading comments made by John Rowling, outgoing chairman of the safety partnership.

In last week's WoS, Mr Rowling said: "People go on about speed cameras lurking ar- ound corners. So let's put this to bed once and for all. We do not hide in bushes."

But last night, Mr Rabone, 46, hit back.

"I invite you to decide for yourself whether or not this van is visible to drivers," he said.

"The pictures were being taken of cars on the dual carriageway where there are rarely any pedestrians. Revenue, or lives? I believe revenue is their priority."

But last night, safety partnership manager Philip Davies said Mr Rabone's photo gives the "wrong impression", and speeds of up to 79mph had been recorded despite a 30mph speed limit.

"We do not hide our cameras. This photo has been taken from the pavement, not from the road where enforcement is taking place," he said.

"The picture gives a different view of the van than approaching motorists have.

"The road is clearly signed and the location of this mobile camera is shown on the camera map on our website.

"Mr Rabone claims there are rarely any pedestrians on this road but I disagree.

"We have seen fatalities involving schoolchildren trying to cross the carriageway.

"Our aim is to make this road safer by encouraging motorists to slow down not to catch them out or make money."

We have seen fatalities involving schoolchildren trying to cross the carriageway

The old "brake" trick....involve kids. I assume they can back this up if evidence that speed caused child fatalities at this location. Where is the crossing patrol officer.

Hitler used the same trick. Involve children and you can convince people of anything