Cameras
Roadworks
Where is the Average Speed Camera System?
An average speed camera system has been installed on the M9 at Junction 1A and the M9 Spur. The cameras will provide speed enforcement on the spur and sections of the main carriageway. The system has been installed as part of the roadworks for the new Forth crossing. The cameras will be enforcing the temporary 40mph speed limit.
There is also an average speed camera system on the Fife side of the Forth Road Bridge. For more information about this you can either go to the Transport Scotland website or the Fife Safety Camera Partnership website.
Here is a map of the area where the average speed camera system will be operating.
How do I know if I’m driving through an average speed camera system?
Before entering the average speed camera system there will be signage informing you of the reduced speed limit and that the speed limit is being enforced by an average speed camera system.
The signs look like this:
Why do we have an Average Speed Camera System?
The average speed camera system has been installed to ensure compliance with the reduced temporary 40mph speed limit. The speed limit has been reduced for the safety of the construction worker and all road users. A positive effect of average speed cameras at roadworks is that traffic is known to flow smoothly.
How long will the Average Speed Camera System be in place?
It is anticipated that the camera system will be operational for 18 months.
How do Average Speed Camera systems work?
Average speed camera systems work by calculating the speed of a vehicle over a distance. A vehicle enters the gateway and the camera and using Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) records the number plate. When the vehicle passes through the exit gateway the camera matches the number plate and carries out a simple time over distance calculation and if the vehicle has been travelling above the speed limit the offence is recorded. If there is no offence the camera does not retain details of the vehicle number plates. Below is a diagram illustrating how an average speed camera system works
What will happen if I am detected speeding by the Average Camera System?
If you are detected exceeding the temporary speed limit the offence will be dealt with in the same manner as a speeding offence from a fixed or mobile speed camera. For further information about what to do if you’ve been detected go to our FAQ page.
Average Safety Camera System Myths
Can I beat it by changing lanes?
No. When originally approved by the Home Office in 1999 average speed camera systems were only approved for the use in a single lane. However, it is no longer true that by changing lanes you can avoid detection. The Home Office retested the average speed camera system in 2008 and the cameras can now detect speeding vehicles that change lane.
Does it work at night?
Yes. The system uses infra red lighting to illuminate number plates so it is capable of reading at all times of the day and night and in all weather conditions.
Where can I find out more information about the new Forth Crossing?
Transport Scotland are responsible for delivering the new Forth crossing and they have created a dedicated website for the project. Go to http://www.forthreplacementcrossing.info On the dedicated website you will be able to find progress reports regarding the construction of the new bridge, frequently asked questions, contact details for the construction team and more.
News Releases
For up to date news about the Forth Replacement Crossing please go to our news page.
Newsletter
Forth Replacement Crossing Project Update including maps [PDF]