Thousands of drivers fined on 50mph A494 and A483 stretches

Freedom of Information data from North Wales Police reveals that 37,000 motorists have been fined for speeding in the two areas covered by average speed cameras over the last three years. 

A total of 22,243 speeding drivers have been fined on the 50mph stretch of the A494 in Deeside, while 15,161 have been handed fines on the A483 zone in Wrexham. 

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The A494 from Aston Hill to the English border and the A483 between the Ruthin Road and Gresford interchange junctions were made subject to a 50mph limit several years ago as part of the Welsh Government commitment to improving air quality.

Research has indicated that nitrogen dioxide levels are at their lowest when cars are travelling at this speed, the Welsh Government said.

The average speed cameras have been in place since in 2019, but were only activated in 2021. 

Freedom of information figures released in 2022 revealed that Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) emissions had dropped by 45 per cent on the A483 50mph zone and 37 per cent in Deeside in the first two years of 50mph limits. 

The Welsh Government has said it has continued to see improvements in air quality.

A spokesperson said: “The 50mph speed limits are in place to tackle high levels of nitrogen dioxide, an airborne pollutant which is harmful to health. 

"We have seen improvements since the speed limits were introduced and will continue to monitor the situation.”