PUBLIC attitude to speed cameras in Stevenage is largely positive, according to the results of a recent survey. Of those polled, 72 per cent agreed that cameras are used to encourage drivers to keep to the speed limits, not to punish them. Eighty-four per

PUBLIC attitude to speed cameras in Stevenage is largely positive, according to the results of a recent survey.

Of those polled, 72 per cent agreed that cameras are used to encourage drivers to keep to the speed limits, not to punish them.

Eighty-four per cent think keeping within the speed limit is important in reducing road accidents, and more than half - 55 per cent - say they are trying to speed less often than they have in the past.

The primary aim of cameras is to reduce accidents, according to 58 per cent of those polled, and 65 per cent support the method.

Just over half - 51 per cent - were aware of the rule that the presence of streetlights indicates a 30mph zone, unless otherwise signposted.

There are 125 fixed speed cameras in the county, 76 mobile camera platforms, and 16 red light camera sites.

Stuart Pile, Herts County Council's executive member for highways and transport, said: "We are very encouraged by these results - it seems, for the most part, Hertfordshire's drivers try to abide by the rules of the road and are aware that speed kills and cameras save lives.

"However, it is of concern that so few people are aware of the streetlights rule, which could prevent many drivers from being caught speeding inadvertently.