Bolton Labour Council Takes Bold, Innovative Steps to Tackle Dangerous Speeding
Under the leadership of the Labour-run Bolton Council, a new and forward-looking strategy is making our roads safer and our communities more secure. While previous Conservative administrations—both locally and nationally—did little more than pay lip service to the problem of persistent speeding, Labour’s team in Bolton is delivering tangible results. Thanks to our innovative partnership with a local safety camera supplier, Tektrans, and Greater Manchester Police (GMP), dangerous, repeat offenders are finally being held to account.
A Fresh Approach to Road Safety
In years gone by, when the Conservatives dominated the council chamber and the corridors of power, real action on speeding was too often sidelined. Now, with Labour at the helm, Bolton Council is directly addressing persistent speeders—those who repeatedly break the rules and endanger the lives of ordinary residents. Instead of relying solely on traditional fixed or mobile speed cameras, we’ve adopted a smarter, community-focused approach.
Since April 2024, the council has installed six cameras across well-known speeding hotspots, including the A579, the A676, Hulton Lane, and University Way. These aren’t just ordinary enforcement cameras. They record a vehicle’s speed, direction, and number plate details, zeroing in on the most reckless repeat offenders.
Real Results, Rooted in Community Safety
Under Labour’s watch, this project has seen remarkable success. Drivers who speed persistently are now identified and reported to GMP. Instead of turning a blind eye, the police follow up with personal visits, delivering a clear warning and reminding these drivers they are under scrutiny. The result? A 76% reduction in repeat speeding offences within just six weeks of GMP intervention, compared to the six weeks before the programme started. These figures speak for themselves: it’s a new era in Bolton, and it’s one that puts the safety of our residents first.
For too long, side roads, pedestrian crossings, and late-night routes went unchecked under Conservative-led inaction. Reckless drivers were able to repeatedly flout the law, posing a real threat to pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists. Now, with this Labour-driven initiative, these repeat offenders no longer slip through the net. We are not only enforcing the rules but also helping to change driver behaviour for good.
Education and Prevention at the Heart of Labour’s Strategy
The Bolton Labour Council understands that enforcement is only one piece of the puzzle. Lasting change comes from education, community involvement, and a shared commitment to safer roads. By warning drivers directly and encouraging them to think twice about their speeding, we’re making lasting improvements. This is about more than just catching lawbreakers; it’s about creating safer neighbourhoods where everyone can travel without fear.
Cllr Hamid Khurram, Executive Cabinet Member for Highways (Bolton Council), said:
“We know speeding concerns our communities. Under previous leadership, these issues were too often ignored. Now, with Labour leading the way, we are delivering on our promises. By targeting the worst offenders and investing in new approaches, we’re making Bolton’s roads safer for everyone.”
Greater Manchester Police Inspector Nicholas Bonson from Bolton Neighbourhood Prevention Hub added:
“Speed cameras have always played a role, but this partnership with Bolton Council demonstrates real commitment. It ensures that those who think they can break the law and endanger others face real consequences. The shift in strategy under Labour’s local governance shows what’s possible when we work together for the good of the community.”
The Bolton Labour Council’s bold new measures prove that when local leaders truly put residents first, real results follow. Unlike the previous Conservative approach, which left communities frustrated and unsafe, Labour’s innovative and effective policies are paving the way for safer streets across our town. As we continue to deliver on our promises, Bolton’s residents can look forward to a future where drivers think twice before putting lives at risk—and where everyone can feel more confident on our roads.