Hello

Earlier this year, I asked for your views on the use of average speed cameras in parts of West Sussex and I’m grateful to the more than 2,000 residents who took the time to respond.

What stood out most clearly is that opinion is finely balanced. Support for average speed cameras sits close to a 50/50 split, which tells me this isn’t a simple issue. While many residents see cameras as part of the solution to road safety concerns, others are less convinced and want to see different approaches.

Feedback also highlighted wider concerns about speeding on other key routes, particularly the A281 and A29, beyond the specific locations included in the survey. I will be doing further research on these routes over the coming weeks to better understand the issues.

When we look at the data alongside the views provided, we see a mixed picture. In some places, average speeds are within limits but in others, higher speeds - especially among a proportion of drivers - remain a concern.

Speeding is one of the ‘Fatal Five’ factors in serious collisions so it’s right that we take this seriously. However, introducing measures like average speed cameras must be evidence-led. That’s why my next step is to bring together collision data and speed data, working closely with the Force’s Roads Policing Team and transport/highway partners, to determine where cameras - or indeed other interventions - would have the greatest impact.

The survey also revealed something else important: many people experience poor driving but don’t report it. We need to make it easier for residents to raise their concerns and I’ll be looking at how we can better promote platforms like Operation Crackdown so reports help target action.

Finally, while relatively few respondents highlighted issues like seatbelt use, we know from wider data that not wearing a seatbelt significantly increases the risk of serious injury or death. It was also an area picked up by police during their recent trial of AI roadside cameras. It is clear that continued public education and awareness will remain vital.

Thank you again to everyone who shared their views. Your feedback is helping shape a more informed, targeted approach to road safety - and I will keep you updated as this work progresses.

Celebrating volunteering in Sussex

As we look ahead to national Volunteers Week (1-7 June) I want to take this opportunity to shine a light on the extraordinary contribution volunteers make to policing and community safety across Sussex.

Every day, thousands of residents give their time, skills and experience to support local policing and community safety work - whether as Special Constables, police cadets, Independent Custody Visitors, restorative justice practitioners or through volunteer initiatives such as Neighbourhood Watch and Community Speedwatch.

Their efforts strengthen neighbourhood policing, support victims of crime and help build safer, more connected communities.

Volunteers are also crucial in improving transparency and trust in policing. For example, our Independent Custody Visitors (ICVs) play a vital role in safeguarding the rights and welfare of people detained in custody, providing independent oversight and reassurance to the public.

Throughout Volunteers Week, I will be celebrating these inspiring individuals by sharing their stories and highlighting the difference they make every day. Their compassion, commitment and local knowledge is invaluable.

To every volunteer across Sussex - thank you. You play an essential role in helping to keep our communities safe and your contribution is truly appreciated.

Katy Bourne OBE
Sussex Police & Crime Commissioner