Speeding Fines Soar Just in Time for Tourist Season: Get Ready for Those Souvenir Penalty Points!

North Wales Live readers have been chatting about a surge in speeding fines As the number of motorists apprehended for speeding on 20mph streets increased significantly last month, it's worth noting that the default speed limit of 20mph was introduced in Wales starting September 2023.

A six-month ' grace' period ensued, during which North Wales police education was prioritized over fines and penalty points. Nevertheless, this strategy changed last spring as enforcement intensified, leading to a substantial rise in the issuance of speeding tickets.

In 2023, slightly more than 25,000 speeding violations were documented on roads with speed limits of 20 mph and 30 mph throughout North Wales. By 2024, this statistic climbed dramatically to approximately 57,000 cases. The highest frequency of penalties was observed in August, with close to 8,000 citations issued—a significant increase from the 892 tickets distributed in June.

• Ban imposed on BBQs at famous North Wales seaside spot as residents express concern
• Individuals are expressing similar sentiments following several vehicles received parking tickets close to a seaside area.

Following this period, the numbers gradually decreased month by month, dropping to 2,966 in January of this year. However, there has been a steady climb since then, with nearly 4,000 fines issued the following month and 4,950 in March.

This pattern seems to persist, as demonstrated by the recently published data for April. The figures reveal that nearly 6,000 motorists were apprehended for exceeding speed limits on 20 mph zones within the locality. This surge aligns with an increase in tourism spurred by the Easter holiday period and several days of pleasant spring weather. Various accounts indicate that many travellers have fallen victim to these stringent regulations, including a specific instance highlighted by North Wales Live earlier this month.

At present, it remains unclear how swiftly hundreds of roads in North Wales might switch back to a 30mph speed limit, and what effect this change could have on speeding violations. Nonetheless, every month, countless motorists still find themselves ticketed for exceeding the current limits.

Commenter Ofcourseitis states: "The demonization of an entire country. The Welsh Government should feel incredibly proud of their accomplishment, targeting drivers with their anti-motorist policies while allegedly improving road safety but actually harming the economy."

Hogangymraeg notes: "Should you exceed the speed limit, anticipate receiving a penalty."

Nexttheborder responds: "Indeed, however, the boundaries ought to be reasonable."

Filipneck counters: "This isn't solely about 20 mph zones. Regardless of the speed limits, certain motorists simply disregard rules as if they're exempt from them."

Morpick observes: "Tourists once departed from Wales clutching a stick of rock as a souvenir. Nowadays, they might be leaving with penalty points on their driving licenses instead. Welcome to Wales!"

SnoopJohnnyJohn concurs: "It's not surprising to see this chaotic scenario during festive seasons as the speed limit signs in Wales are misaligned with those across the rest of the UK."

Brenden Bithell quips, "The new 'Tourist Tax' includes a keepsake worth 3 points."

Pcplod queries: "I struggle to comprehend those who gripe about a 20 mph speed limit aimed at enhancing street safety. Could anyone shed light on why they oppose this lower speed limit?"

Jennifer Thomas concurs: "The limit is just 20 mph in residential zones, particularly near schools. I fail to see what's incorrect about this rule? The majority of major roads maintain their usual speeds. Driving slightly slower actually makes you feel more at ease. Have a wonderful holiday."

Howell Owen is furious: "As you cross the border into Wales, there are no cautionary indicators alerting visitors or delivery drivers about this harsh regulation. It’s nothing more than a massive moneymaking scheme that has cost thousands of individuals millions in penalties and license points."

Tym Corbett replies: “They are round white with a red edged with the numbers 2 and 0 in them? Similar to the ones in England?”

Christian Morris says: “It's basically a tax.”

Craig Sheehan responds: "This isn't a tax; it's a rule stating that if you violate it, you face consequences. Abide by the law, and there will be nothing to pay."

Don Nightingale concurs: "The principle is straightforward; if you wish to accelerate (regardless of the posted speed limit), embrace the associated risks. The narrative swiftly shifts when accidents involving friends or loved ones occur as a result of reckless driving."

Tom Butterworth suggests: "What if we had a different headline? 'As speeding violations increased, penalties were enforced accordingly.'"

Do you believe the 20 mph speed limit might discourage visitors from coming to Wales? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.