Dangerous thefts of warning signs
by Lorna Vibert
You've probably noticed the speed warning signs dotted throughout Rutland recently. Mostly they re powered by solar panels, and they re often put up at traffic black spots, such as Glaston, Stoke Dry crossroads on the A6003, Manton junction and Gunthorpe.
They act as an effective deterrent to speeding motorists, and can help save lives apparently they can cause reductions in driving speeds of around 7mph
However, it seems that the solar panels, which cost around £1700 and sometimes the signs themselves, which cost around £2,500 are being targeted by thieves who steal them for their scrap value. The wind turbine at Gunthorpe was stolen soon after it was put up it s recently been replaced. Solar panels were also stolen from Manton and Gunthorpe; the sign at Stoke Dry crossroads was first vandalised by having the solar panels removed, and then the rest of the sign was stolen.
Some people might think this is a trivial moan, but quite apart from the cost to the local authority (i.e. those of us who live in the area) there s also a safety concern. For example, since August 2007 FOUR PEOPLE HAVE DIED in separate accidents on the Stoke Dry Crossroads, a notorious accident black spot.
Personally, I think these signs are a good deterrent, and are far preferable to speed cameras. They are, after all, just a warning although I have heard of people trying to outrun them, see here
Apparently, prices for scrap metal have gone through the roof, and church roofs are having the lead removed once again, and even manhole covers are being stolen!
The council are responding by considering speed cameras, and reducing speed limits, and are putting up accident blackspot notices. Wouldn t we rather have the warning notices than speed cameras? What can we do to stop the vandalism?
By the way, if you ve got any information on the thefts, you can ring 0116 222 2222 and speak to Sgt 4175 Helen Lodge.
