MP endorses Community Speedwatch campaign in Petworth

Surrey and Michael Weeks, John Knight, and Leslie New of the Community Speedwatch, and Jim Scallon, a Petworth Town Councillor.

Arundel & South Downs MP Andrew Griffith joined the volunteers of Petworth’s Community Speedwatch early on Sunday morning, September 4, to monitor anti-social traffic which is blighting the town.

Andrew met with Surrey and Michael Weeks, John Knight, and Leslie New of the Community Speedwatch, and Jim Scallon, a Petworth Town Councillor.

As well as monitoring the speed of traffic which travels along the narrow streets, Andrew spoke to them about their why their call for a 20mph limit is greatly needed.

Surrey Weeks said: “We are a Community Speedwatch Group of just four members, and we are doing what we can for Petworth residents but feel the situation is not improving without additional support from the appropriate authorities.”

Motorbikes on North Street, which are typical of the noisy and heavy traffic which travels on this road.

“Speaking to residents, and while carrying out our Speedwatch sessions, we have concluded that Petworth is in desperate need of traffic calming measures, especially a 20mph zone.”

Andrew Griffith said: “I was a willing volunteer joining the very early start with the Petworth Community Speedwatch Group who are doing a terrific job in monitoring and reporting those drivers who fail to drive with due care through the very narrow streets of this ancient town. Sadly, once again, it is a minority of anti-social riders which give the great British motorcycling fraternity a bad name.

“I endorse the town’s campaign for a 20mph and am asking Sussex Police and West Sussex County Council to support it.”

Community Speedwatch is an initiative allowing local people to calm traffic in their communities. Sussex Police train volunteers to use speed calming equipment which is then loaned out to be used at safe, risk assessed locations within their community.