New Red-Light Cameras Boost Safety in Calcot

A red-light camera has been installed at a pedestrian crossing on the A4 in Calcot.

A red-light camera has been installed at a pedestrian crossing on the A4 in Calcot, close to two local schools.

The camera will catch drivers who jump red lights at the crossing and, when the crossing lights are green, it will operate as a speed camera.

The crossing is one of the first in the Thames Valley to get this tech and is one of three sites chosen for the project between Thames Valley Police and local authorities. The scheme aims to tackle traffic violations and improve pedestrian safety after ongoing community concerns about red-light running.

Council data shows red-light violations peak during school terms — around 22% of drivers run the red light during school hours, compared with 7% during half-term.

Parents are being encouraged to use the Park and Stride scheme from Linear Park, which links with the A4 Calcot crossing and helps families avoid restricted roads while supporting safer walking and cycling routes to school.

Stuart Gourley (Lib Dem, Newbury Clay Hill), executive member for highways at West Berkshire Council, said: “We’re really pleased to be working with Thames Valley Police on this road safety initiative, especially at such a busy crossing on the A4 in Calcot.

“With the new red-light cameras, we’re tackling a longstanding concern from residents and making sure families and children have a safer crossing on their way to school.

“This is just one of the ways we’re committed to making West Berkshire’s roads safer for everyone and continuing to improve our highways.”

Detective chief inspector Justin Thomas, joint operations head of roads policing, said: “Safety on our roads is a priority for Thames Valley Police and our partners.

“The cameras will hopefully protect those using the Calcot crossing, as well as to reduce collisions where red light jumping has become an issue.

“The consequences of jumping a red light where pedestrians are crossing has potentially fatal consequences.

“I would urge motorists to take extra care, slow down and never run the risk.

“We will continue to work with our partners in order to make our roads a safer place for everyone.”

Niki Hinman, Local Democracy Reporter