Community Speedwatch (CSW) is a locally driven initiative where active members of the community, monitor speeds of vehicles at specific locations using approved speed detection devices with support from Surrey Police.

Registered keepers of vehicles that exceed the speed limit threshold are sent advisory letters to educate and influence behaviour to ultimately reduce their speed. CSW volunteers receive necessary training, delivered by their local Casualty Reduction Officer (CRO).

CSW plays an important role in improving road safety. The evidence shows that perceptions of speed vary from being unsubstantiated through to levels that demand an effective enforcement regime. The volunteers provide a valuable contribution to the wider objectives of road and community safety as well as casualty reduction.

Surrey Police fully support the drive to achieve casualty reduction targets, this includes reducing the number of people killed and seriously injured on the roads as part of the Vision Zero Road Safety Plan.

With an ever growing demand, it’s not possible for the police to conduct all necessary speed enforcement checks across the county. Therefore, communities with a speeding problem without a corresponding collision record may not receive what they would consider to be adequate levels of enforcement . This is where Community Speedwatch can help.

Community Speedwatch has been highly successful across the country and has made a significant impact in re-educating motorists on the dangers of speeding and raising awareness of the impact of anti-social driving on communities.

Schemes have also reduced the threat of danger to individuals, particularly, young people and the elderly.

If you and other members of the community think that speeding traffic is a serious issue in your area, then involve your local authority, as their support will be vital. If other members of the community would like to volunteer and take an active role in speed monitoring the next step is to form a group.

Maybe there’s an existing Speedwatch group you could join? Or, perhaps there’s a road safety sub-committee of the Parish Council? Surrey County Council fully supports CSW.

Volunteers taking part in CSW are covered by insurance. Provided they are acting under the supervision of Surrey Police.

To express your interest, please get in touch with Brenda Gough (Community Speedwatch Co-Ordinator) via email CommunitySpeedWatch@surrey.police.uk, or call:01483 638281

You will be guided through the process, receive all necessary training and risk assessments. You will also liaise with your local police team.

Thank you for your interest in helping to make Surrey’s roads safer!