A836 Average Speed Cameras to go live Monday 5th May.

Police Scotland’s North Safety Camera Unit are reinstating average speed cameras on the A836 between Reay and Thurso, after an initial two month trial last year proved successful.

The average speed cameras were deployed on a temporary short term basis as part of plans to improve road safety and encourage better speed compliance on Scotland’s roads.  During September and October 2024, the cameras detected zero offences and average speeds on the road decreased.

In partnership with the Scottish Safety Camera Programme and the Highland Council, the Camera Unit will rerun the trial during this year’s peak season.

Since the introduction of the North Coast 500 in March 2015, the route, including the A836, annually sees an increase in traffic from spring through to autumn.

Monthly speed surveys will be carried out, to monitor vehicle speeds and traffic volumes, and to help determine the deployment strategy, however at this stage the cameras are expected to be in place until after the peak summer months.

Councillor Ken Gowans, Chair of the Highland Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee says: “I am pleased that average speed cameras will be reinstated on this busy route in peak season. Speed limits make the roads safer for all road users, including passengers, cyclists and pedestrians, and I hope that the reintroduction of speed enforcement will remind drivers of the importance of speed compliance and road safety, especially on a route as popular as they travel on the beautiful North Coast 500.”

Eric Dunion, North Safety Camera Unit Manager says: “Whilst this location would not normally meet the criteria to become a permanent location, the short term deployment scheme gives us the flexibility to be at locations where we believe there will be a change in traffic behaviour. It is hoped this extension of last year’s trial will again result in speed limit compliance by all types of vehicles and help to meet our aim of making our roads safer for all users”.

For further information on Police Scotland Safety Cameras please see safetycameras.gov.scot

30/04/2025