Three pending applications for speed cameras

The Local Enforcement System committee is considering three applications for the installation of speed cameras in roads synonymous with speeding.

The committee has received an application for a speed camera to be installed on the St Paul's Bay bypass, one in the road leading from Żebbuġ to Siġġiewi and another one in Mdina Road, Qormi.

LES committee chairman Louis Cuschieri said that the applications still have to be discussed. A permit to install a speed camera is only granted after the committee carries out a feasibility study.

Mr Cuschieri confirmed that about a year ago, the committee granted permission for a speed camera to be installed on the Ħal Far road after reports were received that car races were being organised there at night. The speed limit has been set at 60km/h.

Sources said it took a while for the speed camera to be set up because of disagreements between the local councils involved since, due to its length, Ħal Far Road falls within the boundaries of a number of villages.

Mr Cuschieri also confirmed that the speed camera in Xemxija has been removed because of several complaints received about the speed limit that was imposed. However, a rumour circulating in an e-mail that wardens are using mobile speed cameras on the Coast Road is false.

The e-mail states: "Wardens are using a mobile speed camera (gun-type speed trap) along the Coast Road. Anyone driving from there, remember the speed along all the road from Pembroke to Buġibba is 60km/h."

A Malta Transport Authority spokesman said that wardens are not even equipped with mobile speed guns or speed cameras. The spokesman said the ADT's traffic directorate has a speed gun, which is used to monitor the speed of cars through particular roads.

The spokesman said that traffic police also own a mobile speed camera but according to their regulations, they have to erect proper signage warning motorists about the presence of the equipment, which is attached to the back of a van.

mxuereb@timesofmalta.com