Unmarked road safety enforcement vans are being introduced by Avon and Somerset Police this week, with Shepton Mallet identified as one of the areas where persistent speeding is a concern. The new initiative follows community reports, local speedwatch schemes, and data that shows speeding continues to be a recurring issue in Shepton Mallet.

The unmarked vans are equipped with 360-degree cameras, long-range detection technology, and infrared capabilities for night-time enforcement. They will detect not only speeding but also other traffic offences such as failure to wear a seatbelt or using a mobile phone while driving.

Chief Inspector Robert Cheeseman, Head of Roads Policing and Road Safety, said: "The use of unmarked speed detection vans is not about catching people out; it's about protecting lives. Speeding is one of the leading causes of fatal and serious injury collisions, and we are committed to using every tool at our disposal to address this."

In 2023, 63 people lost their lives in 55 collisions across the Avon and Somerset area. These unmarked vans are part of the force's effort to deter dangerous driving and improve road safety in communities like Shepton Mallet.

With the support of local data and speedwatch schemes, Shepton Mallet is expected to see increased enforcement as part of the initiative to reduce road accidents.