Speeding in Ickenham

The Ickenham & South Harefield Ward Panel meets regularly and uses survey inputs from residents to identify points for action.  The Panel consists of residents, one or more officers from your police Safer Neighbourhoods Team (SNT), and one or more elected Councillors for your Ward.

The problem…

Last year in 2024 it was clear that speeding and dangerous driving in Ickenham was a persistent problem, with Swakeleys Road dual carriageway highlighted as a road where the 30mph speed limit is consistently ignored - drivers questioned at two collisions responded that they thought the limit was 60mph when asked.  Swakeleys Road is crossed by many students on their way to and from school, and their safety deemed to be paramount. 

The solution…

The Ward Panel agreed that the issue should be addressed through signage, given that speed patrols can only be present for small periods of time.  Various types of sign were discussed (given that the round standard 30mph signs with red border cannot be used because street lights exist at intervals of 200 yards or less) which resulted in Hillingdon Council proposing to fund and install illuminated signage as a reminder to drivers.   Many of you will have noticed that the signs were installed earlier this year and are operational.  Foliage obscuring one of the signs has been trimmed today which makes both signs very visible.

The outcome…

The image above shows the two signs being triggered - anecdotal observation does show a number of drivers applying their brakes after triggering the sign (see image), which is good news.  Not every driver will do this, but even if a percentage a made to realise what the speed limit is then that will improve safety.

What about those who struggle to understand speed limits…?

Officers continue to stage regular speed checks on Swakeleys Road beyond the rigger point of the signs.  The image below shows residents taking part in a recent Community Speedwatch event at which a number of vehicles were recorded speeding and will receive warning letters in due course.

Going forwards…

Your Ward Panel will monitor the situation, and the partnership between residents, the police and councillors on your Ward will continue to look at issues raised, so if you receive a survey please do take part - the results are looked at, and actions are taken as a result.