A NEW speed camera is set to be placed in a village close to Droitwich after residents voiced concern over drivers breaking the 30mph limit.

Yesterday (Monday) the scheme was launched on Briar Hill in Chaddesley Corbett by the Safer Roads Partnership in Warwickshire and West Mercia.

It forms part of the Safer Roads Partnership’s Community Concern programme, which responds to residents' requests for speed enforcement.

Anna Higgins, communications manager at the Safer Roads Partnership, said: "The speed data we collected in the area highlighted unacceptably high speeds; at least half of all drivers are exceeding the 30mph speed limit and 15 per cent of vehicles travel above 39mph.

"With a residential area and a busy village centre nearby, residents are understandably concerned about the speed of traffic. We hope that the presence of a speed camera will encourage drivers to change their behaviour and drive at a lower, safer speed.

"This will help to improve the quality of life for people living in the area and improve the safety of the road for all those who use it."

Chaddesley Corbett residents raised their concerns through their parish council, who then brought it to the attention of the partnership and asked for action to be taken.

Speed data will be collected while the site is in operation to assess the impact upon traffic speed and driver behaviour.

The Safer Roads Partnership sees Warwickshire and West Mercia Police work with partner agencies to reduce casualties and make the roads safer across Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, Warwickshire and Worcestershire through communication, education and training together with enforcement.