A driver caught speeding at 64mph in a 30mph zone was among 125 offenders recorded during Wiltshire Police’s latest Project Zero road safety operation in Salisbury.
The incident occurred on The Avenue in Wilton during a day of action on Wednesday, 19 February, as officers from the Roads Policing Unit, Serious Collision Investigation Team, and Speed Watch Enforcement targeted known traffic hotspots across Salisbury.
Project Zero is part of Wiltshire Police’s ongoing weekly campaign aimed at reducing road fatalities across the county. It focuses on drivers committing the “Fatal Five” offences: speeding, drink or drug driving, using a mobile phone while driving, driving without a seatbelt, and careless or dangerous driving.
During the Salisbury operation, officers were strategically stationed along key routes including Odstock Road, Downton Road, The Avenue in Wilton, and Coombe Bissett. The most severe offence involved the motorist clocked at 64mph — more than double the speed limit — who has been summoned to court.
In total, 125 offences were recorded, including:
- 117 speeding violations
- 3 drivers without seatbelts
- 3 uninsured drivers
- 1 driver caught using a mobile phone while driving
- 1 vehicle without a valid MOT
Out of the 117 speeding offences, 81 drivers were offered speed awareness courses, while 30 received £100 fixed penalty notices along with three penalty points on their licences. Six drivers, including the individual caught at 64mph, have been summoned to court for more serious speeding violations, which ranged from 51mph to 64mph in 30mph zones.
Chief Inspector James Brain from Wiltshire Police’s Roads Policing Unit emphasized the importance of the campaign, stating, “Speeding is one of the biggest contributors to serious road traffic collisions. The goal of Project Zero is simple — to reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries on our roads by targeting dangerous driving behaviours.”
He added, “Our message is clear: speed limits are there for a reason. Driving irresponsibly not only puts your life at risk but endangers the lives of others. Operations like these serve as both a deterrent and a means of holding law-breaking drivers accountable.”
Wiltshire Police has vowed to continue regular Project Zero days of action, with future operations planned in different areas across the county.
Members of the public are encouraged to report dangerous driving and traffic concerns to Wiltshire Police via their website or by calling 101.
