Speed Humps and Traffic Calming
Traffic calming consists of a package of measures affecting the movement of vehicles and other traffic for the purpose of promoting safety, or preserving or improving the environment. The essence of traffic calming lies, not so much in the use of specific measures, but in the achievement of the objectives of improving driver awareness and behaviour. Traffic calming is a generic terms used in reference to tools used to change the horizontal and/or vertical alignments, introduce road narrowings and build-outs, roundabouts, entrance gateways and coloured surfacing.
Speed humps, tables and cushions are probably the most effective form of traffic calming available for controlling vehicle speeds. Their effectiveness relies on causing inconvenience to drivers and therefore they may not always be popular with the very people who would gain from reduced traffic speeds.
Traffic calming is principally installed on residential roads, shopping areas and outside schools. Works are financed by the Council, through funding from the Scottish Executive and by developers through the planning process. Consultation on proposals takes place with local councillors, Community Councils, the wider community, statutory groups (e.g. Police, Fire Service) and other interested parties, usually through direct contact, public meetings and public exhibitions.
All requests to the Council for traffic calming measures will be assessed to quantify the extent of the problem and the possible benefits which could accrue from such measures.
Requests should be made to: see contact details
