The Hughenden Parish NAG has been active for the past four years and the objective is to assist the police in controlling matters of concern in the
Parish, and to engage residents in improving the environment. The main priorities have been based on the wishes of residents, as evidenced by a recent
survey. They are -
1. excessive speeding by motorists (certain roads are checked regularly)
2. to highlight areas of litter and dog fouling, organise regular 'litter picks’, and encourage everyone to keep the villages and countryside tidy
3. to report any anti-social behaviour and criminal damage
There are other unwelcome activities which are discussed at the regular meetings, and these include disruptive vehicle parking and burglary and theft.
These meetings are attended by residents who have offered their services, and have signed a formal document of commitment. The local Community Police Officer provides information on all the items for discussion, particularly the results of motorists exceeding the speed limits, who will receive a warning letter.
VEHICLE ACTIVATED SIGNS ("VAS") and
SPEED INDICATOR DEVICE ("SID")
Residents will be aware that two types of device are in evidence in the area, and these are operated by members of the NAG together with other residents who are prepared to assist in this important work.
VAS
There are currently two VAS machines in the Parish (shortly to be four) and these are moved around the Parish every two weeks. Existing poles are being used in the four wards. For example, a device can be sited on alternative poles along the road which is being monitored warning drivers of the speed limit. It also logs details of vehicle volumes, speeds and times of traffic. The visual impact of seeing the warning light, together with providing the traffic authorities of where police camera patrols are needed, is a useful means of speed control.
SID
The SID is set up by the side of the road, and operated by a team of three, including the local police officer. It will pick up a vehicle some 120 metres in
advance, and shows the driver and the team the exact speed. If the limit is exceeded, the team notes the speed, make, model and colour of the vehicle, and the time of the offence. The driver will receive a warning letter from the police, and after three letters, police action will be taken. It has been noted, regrettably, that many of the offenders are local residents, some carrying children as passengers!
Terry Williams