ENFORCEMENT of the 20mph limit has begun, a Welsh Government minister has said. 

Deputy climate change minister, Lee Waters MS, posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday morning announcing the news.

He said: "The next phase of the 20mph limit introduction is beginning. After giving over three months to get used to it the police are starting to enforce. It will be an 'education led' approach - there’s no incentive for us to fine because the money won’t stay in Wales.

"Operation Ugain (which is Welsh for 20) is being run [by] police, councils, community speed watch groups and the fire and rescue services. If you are caught speeding you’ll be stopped and given a choice of a fine and points, or the chance to take part in a roadside engagement session.

"Some of these will be delivered by fire officers who attend many calls to rescue people from road traffic collisions, making them well-placed to engage with drivers. The most dangerous drivers will not get a choice and will be prosecuted."

Mr Waters said that police guidelines say enforcement will be targeted on drivers travelling 10 per cent above the speed limit - plus 2mph. For now this will be increased to 10 per cent plus 4mph meaning they start to prosecute at 26mph in a 20mph limit.

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He added: "Meanwhile we are progressing a review of how the new speed limit is being implemented and whether local authorities are confident in using their powers to exempt some stretches of road that would be better at 30mph. Or if further guidance is needed."

Enforcement in 20mph areas started to be reintroduced at the beginning of November 2023 - but this was in existing 20mph enforcement locations that "weren’t affected by the legislation change, had the correct signage in place, and continued to show evidence of road safety risk."

Following what police have described as a "bedding in period," police forces in Wales will be reviewing the compliance data this month.

A North Wales Police spokesperson continued: "This will provide an understanding of how the new speed limits are being adhered to and whether lack of compliance is increasing road safety risk. 

"Policing will look at collision data, and other risk factors, before considering an approach for enforcement of 20mph in future.

"Enforcement sites will only be approved for where the data, including speed compliance data, shows that there will be a road safety benefit from enforcing. 

"Before enforcement is conducted at any new 20mph locations, it will be preceded by active engagement with partners and communities, with advance notice of the agreed policy to be published on the four Welsh police force and GoSafe websites in advance of any action taken."

They added:  "The enforcement approach for 20mph has been one of transparency and proportionality, with a dedicated web resource outlining these policies, and frequently asked questions being published online. 

"Our aim is to ensure compliance with the speed limits for the benefit of road safety, not to catch people out. 

"Enforcement is carried out where there is evidence of risk and harm to people and each location is assessed prior to enforcement taking place."

Regarding fixed speed cameras, GoSafe has said cameras can be adjusted to a change in the speed limit.

A spokesperson said: "We are working closely with local authorities to monitor and assess these areas across Wales and will ensure that any adjustments are made where required to enforce the new speed limit."