Police voice concern over number of drivers speeding on North Wales roads

Police officers have voiced concerns over the number of drivers speeding on the roads of North Wales during the coronavirus pandemic.

Despite most routes being quieter due to lockdown regulations, members of North Wales Police’s roads policing team are continuing to actively patrol the region to enforce the law.

Over recent weeks, officers said they had witnessed a number of people travelling at high speeds on the A55 and A483, as well as through local towns and villages.

Chief Superintendent Neill Anderson said: “Far fewer vehicles have been using the roads since the government urged people to stay at home to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

“It is extremely concerning to see a number of drivers who are using the quieter roads to drive too fast putting themselves and others in danger.

“The continued focus on road safety is particularly important during the current pandemic when we all need to do what we can to reduce the pressure on the NHS to save lives.”

This weekend saw one driver being caught travelling at 115mph on the A55 on Anglesey and another driving at 46mph in a 30mph zone in Bangor, who also tested positive for cocaine at the roadside.

Others speeding offences identified in the last few weeks include someone doing 113mph on the A55 at Northop, 101mph on the A5 near Corwen and 74mph on the A5 at Glasfryn.

Drivers without insurance have also had their cars seized and other drivers have been arrested for failing roadside drug tests.

Chief Supt Anderson added: “Fatal or serious collisions caused by taking risks and driving or riding at excess speed would add additional pressure to the NHS.

“North Wales Police are out policing the road networks seeking to keep our roads and communities safe from those who put their lives and other innocent road users at risk. Please slow down, stay safe on the roads and protect the NHS.”