Power to the people of Ford
Date: 28-06-2010
Ford Village Society is to trial an innovative new speed reduction scheme, supported by Transport for Buckinghamshire
On 30th June the small village of Ford will make history when it becomes the first village in Buckinghamshire to launch a new concept in speed reduction. Ford Village Society (FVS) has researched and initiated a scheme whereby villagers themselves will move a Vehicle Activated Sign (VAS) between five locations throughout the village in order to minimise driver complacency and maximise effectiveness. The VAS will be repositioned regularly by a group of 30 Ford volunteer residents.
The speed limit in Ford is 30mph, but villagers have observed vehicles travelling at more than 50mph. Ford has a narrow, twisting lane through the village. Over two years ago Ford Village Society (FVS) began a comprehensive programme of research to find a realistic and cost effective speed reduction solution. FVS also worked closely with Dinton with Ford and Upton Parish Council and their local County Councillor, Margaret Aston, who lent her full support to the scheme and participated in the associated fundraising programme. With her assistance, FVS approached Transport for Buckinghamshire who have assisted FVS in providing an innovative solution to their problem, with support of the Thames Valley Local Area Policing Team.
Valerie Letheren, Cabinet Member for Transportation, commented: “It has been good to work with caring residents such as members of Ford Village Society and help them reduce speeding through their village. This ground screw is a safe and secure method of installing their sign and we are supportive of their commitment to improving road safety in their local community.”
Mary Hobden, Chairman of Ford Village Society, said: “The aim of the Ford Village Society is to foster community spirit and promote the interests of local residents. Excessive speeding is the single biggest issue we face which is why we decided to take matters into our own hands and come up with an effective solution in the shortest possible timeframe. We are proud to have had our speed reduction scheme proposal approved and look forward to the results of the trial, which we are confident will show a marked decrease in instances of speeding in Ford village. We hope that the successful completion of the trial will encourage other communities across the county to consider implementing similar schemes.”
The villagers of Ford have invested their own time and money in the scheme and have initiated several fundraising initiatives and events. By purchasing only one VAS they have managed to keep the costs of the new scheme to a minimum. Working with Transport for Buckinghamshire 5 sites were found where the VAS would be effective. There are five ground screws installed throughout the village into which the pole supporting the VAS unit can be attached. The Thames Valley Local Policing Team has also committed to make a specified number of visits to Ford equipped with laser speed guns to complement the effectiveness of the trial.
For further information please the visit Transport for Buckinghamshire website
