Central Coast Council has installed four Vehicle Activated Speed Signs on three roads in Woongarrah as part of its strategy to reduce speeding across the region.

The solar powered digital signs are designed to calm traffic by alerting approaching motorists to their current speed in real time.

Council Director Roads, Transport, Drainage and Waste, Boris Bolgoff said Council was trialling the technology at Hiawatha Road, Hakone Road and Mataram Road with a view to increased use across the Central Coast.

“We are using Vehicle Activated Speed Signs on roads in Woongarrah with a history of speeding,” Mr Bolgoff said.

“Early analysis of speed data captured by this technology shows the signs are reducing speeding in the higher brackets, which is exactly the impact we wanted.

“We use a range of measures to calm traffic across the Central Coast and Vehicle Activated Signs could become an important part of the mix.

“The signs will alert passing motorists to their speed through a flashing red light if they are exceeding the speed limit.”

The signs have the 50 kilometre per hour speed limit permanently displayed above the LED display and have been placed on roads that are predominately straight and situated in a semi-rural location.

Mayor Jane Smith said Council is committed to using innovative solutions to reduce speeding.

“We are using a mix of strategies, including the use of new technology, to curb speeding and save lives on roads across the Central Coast,” Mayor Smith said.

Council can transport the signs for use at other locations and will trial their use at Hillview Street and Dunban Road in Woy Woy.