Concern over speeding motorists

THOUSANDS of drivers were today told they could be fined for ignoring a new speed limit at the controversial Martlesham park- and-ride scheme.

Every day motorists are openly flouting the 40mph restriction on the A12 dual carriageway on the approach to the roundabout close to Suffolk Police headquarters.

They are taking no notice of the drop in speed limits from 70mph to 40mph and some drivers mistakenly believe that the 40mph signs have been left from the construction works of the multi-million pound park and ride site.

But Suffolk County Council said it has been given permission for a temporary traffic order to run for 18 months and it would consult to establish if the public were happy with the new limit.

The council is keen on a 40mph limit to reduce traffic speed and increase safety for motorists coming to the roundabout where traffic lights have been installed and a new junction constructed to take users to the bus station.

A council spokeswoman said the traffic order started in May. "First we have to see if the 40 limit is effective or revert back to the old system or to 50 as an interim measure," she said.

She said the council would have to consult with the police, Martlesham parish council and others before a final decision could be made.

A Suffolk Police spokesman said: "At the end of the day if there is a speed limit there, whether temporary or not, it is there to be obeyed.

"The county council is the one that sets the speed limit on the roads and they are obviously there for a reason and they should be adhered to."

Martlesham parish council has already warned that a lower speed limit would be difficult to enforce and councillors wanted a 50mph limit if the 70mph limit had to be altered.

They also said that the new traffic lights would encourage people to "rat run" through Bealings to avoid them. Householders in Playford Road, Little Bealings, said they have noticed an increase in traffic.