TfL Ref: FOI-1609-2425

Thank you for your request which we received on 16 August 2024, asking for information about the average speed restriction on the A20.

Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act and our information access policy.  I can confirm that we hold the information you require. You asked: 

1. What date were the average speed (40mph) trap cameras deployed on the above section of the A20?

The average speed camera system was installed in October 2023. Variable Message Signs were introduced on 4 October 2023, warning of the new 40mph limit, nine weeks ahead of enforcement taking place. Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) enforcement action began on 19 December 2023.

1. What was the speed limit on this section of the A20 prior to the reduction to 40mph? And

The initial stretch from the existing 40mph adjacent to Woodchurch Close was reduced from 50mph to 40mph. The section east of Crittalls Corner to the National Highways boundary was reduced from 70mph to 40mph.

(b)       how long was the previous speed limit in force for? Years/months?? And (c) what was the speed limit on this section during this time (Pre 40mph trap)?

The earliest Traffic Road Order from 1965 shows the speed limit was 50mph. 

1. What were the explicitly stated and communicated reason(s) for the deployment of a reduction to 40mph on this section?
2. How many RT As and road/traffic incidents were officially recorded during the period (see 2b above)? And specifically, those recorded incidents (along the specific stretch of the A20 referenced above) attributed to 'skid risk and or road surface water/flooding?

In response to questions 3 and 4, we answered similar questions before. Please see our published response here: https://tfl.gov.uk/corporate/transparency/freedom-of-information/foi-request-detail?referenceId=FOI-4182-2324

In accordance with section 21 of the FOI Act, we are not obliged to supply you with a copy of the requested information as it is already accessible to you elsewhere.

1. How many NIPs (Notices of Intended Prosecutions), were administered during the period (See 2b above) when the previous speed limit was in force directly prior to the deployment of the 40mph average speed trap? And over what period were these administered? And specifically, how many individual motorists does this equate to?

The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) are the enforcement authority and hold data relating to NIPs issued. In this instance, we do also hold this data. 

That said, TfL does receive information on the number of activations of each camera on a monthly basis, as well as the number of enforcements (Notice of Intended Prosecutions) issued for offences by the police. However, this information is exempt from release under section 31 of the Freedom of Information Act,  which can apply where release of information would be likely to prejudice the prevention of crime, or to prejudice the apprehension or prosecution of offenders. This is because the release of this information (or similar information in relation to other areas) would reveal locations where enforcement activity is less likely to be implemented and may therefore encourage people to ignore restrictions at those locations. Whilst we make no suggestion that you would use this information for anything other than your own interest, the disclosure of information under FOI is regarded as a disclosure to the public at large rather than to the individual applicant.

The use of this exemption is subject to an assessment of the ‘public interest test’ to determine whether the greater public interest rests in the exemption applying and the information being withheld, or in releasing it in any event. We recognise the need for openness and transparency by public authorities and the fact that you have requested the information is in itself an argument for release. However, in this instance we feel that balance of public interest lies in favour of withholding the information to ensure that we are able to manage traffic on the road network. It would be strongly against the public interest to release any information that would undermine this. We consider that the release of this information would lead to increased problems as some motorists may seek to take advantage of the information, which would have a detrimental effect on street management. This principle has been previously agreed by the Information Commissioner in relation to a similar, previous request, as can be seen in the following Decision Notice - the same arguments apply in your case: https://ico.org.uk/media/action-weve-taken/decision-notices/2021/2620057/ic-69434-n9n7.pdf

6.         How many NIPs (Notices of Intended Prosecutions), have been administered since the deployment of the 40mph speed trap cameras (up to 31.07 .24) and specifically how many individual motorists does this equate to?

As above. 

Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal as well as information on copyright and what to do if you would like to re-use any of the information we have disclosed. 

Yours sincerely

Eva Hextall 

FOI Case Management Team

General Counsel

Transport for London