Community Speedwatch (CSW) is an initiative where police-supported volunteers use speed detection devices to monitor and record speeding vehicles in their local area. The primary goal is to educate drivers to slow down and deter speeding, improving road safety and quality of life for residents. While the data collected is not used for direct prosecution, it provides evidence to the police, who can then conduct more targeted speed enforcement operations or issue warnings to repeat offenders. 

How it works:

• Community involvement: Volunteers are trained to operate speed detection equipment, such as Speed Indicator Devices (SIDs), within their communities. 
• Data collection: Volunteers monitor vehicle speeds and record details of any drivers exceeding the speed limit. 
• Police partnership: The recorded data is shared with the police, who use it to identify problem areas and drivers. 
• Driver education: The scheme’s aim is to educate drivers, who may not realise they are speeding or the impact of their speed on others, especially children and the elderly. 
• Targeted enforcement: If a vehicle is caught speeding repeatedly by a CSW group, details are sent to their local police force, who may then take further action, such as sending official warnings or conducting targeted enforcement. 

Benefits of Community Speedwatch:

• Reduces speeding: Deters drivers from exceeding the speed limit. 
• Increases road safety: Aims to reduce road accidents and injuries, particularly on residential roads. 
• Improves community quality of life: Addresses resident concerns about road safety and creates a more peaceful environment. 
• Provides evidence: Gathers valuable data on speeding patterns, helping police to understand and address issues more effectively. 

How to get involved:

• If you wish to become a volunteer and support the team you can contact our coordinator via weaverthorpeparishcouncil@gmail.com.

Weaverthorpe Statistics:

In August 2025 when we deployed 3 times and observed 112 vehicles 12 of which were reported to North Yorkshire Police for travelling at excessive speeds.

In September 2025 we deployed 2 times and observed 58 vehicles 4 of which were reported to North Yorkshire Police for travelling at excessive speeds.

Over the period 22 July to 15 September the Vehicle Activated Sign counted 32,832 vehicles at an average speed of 26.3 mph. The highest speed recorded was 65.0 mph at 23:00 on 20th August.

In October 2025 we deployed on four occasions, two of those deployments did not record any vehicles driving at excessive speeds. On the other two occasions there were twelve vehicles reported to North Yorkshire Police for travelling at excessive speeds. One vehicle was travelling at 58 mph!