A9 cameras already curbing speeders

NEWLY-INSTALLED cameras on one of Scotland's most notorious roads are already cutting drivers' speed.

The average-speed cameras on the A9 have not yet been switched on, but have nonetheless seen the number of motorists breaking the speed the limit on the Perth to Pitlochry stretch drop from one in three to one in 10.

Work began to install the devices from Perth to Inverness last month, one of a number of planned measures to improve safety on the main route connecting central Scotland and the Highlands.

Fatal and serious road accidents on the busy, single carriageway road are significantly higher than the national average.

Transport Minister Keith Brown said: "Average speed cameras encourage drivers to improve their behaviour and we are already seeing this on the A9.

"The A9 Safety Group is also taking forward measures to improve driver awareness of speed limits and to encourage safe overtaking on the route.

"Surveys have taken place in respect of drivers' attitudes and experience of the route and further initiatives are being considered.

"When the camera system is switched on, the HGV 50mph speed limit will also come into force with the backing of the Scottish Parliament. The pilot will introduce a level playing field for businesses which we expect will also benefit from less disruption caused by fatal and serious accidents."

Superintendent Iain Murray from Police Scotland said: "This is an early indication that drivers are already moderating their behaviour. This can only improve safety on the route and I would encourage all drivers to follow this example."

Engineers will test the new camera system before it goes live in October.

The Scottish Government plans to make 80 miles of single carriageway between Perth and Inverness dual by 2025.

By Lucy Christie, Press Association