SIDs are used to display the speed of oncoming vehicles and are proven to reduce traffic speeds when used at appropriate locations.

One SID used on A352 Wareham Road in Wool saw most drivers reducing their speed:

• Before the SID on average 569 vehicles were travelling over 35mph between 7am and 7pm. During the SID placement this dropped to 142
• Before the SID, on average 160 vehicles were travelling over 40mph between 7am and 7pm. During the SID placement this dropped to 31

New sites are set up by Dorset Highways, which provides risk assessments and training. Parish and town councils fund their local programme, owning the devices and taking responsibility for deploying them.

Portfolio holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, Cllr Ray Bryan, said, “By working together with parish and town councils, this community-based initiative has expanded and become more responsive to local needs.

“These displays have a measurable impact on reducing traffic speeds, something many communities are concerned about, and they contribute towards changing driver behaviour through our towns and villages.

“My thanks to all the communities who have worked hard on schemes in their area – you’ve made a real difference and helped make our roads safer.”

There are currently 45 communities deploying SIDs at 127 locations in the Dorset Council area. Any community interested in the scheme can contact sids@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk