THE long-awaited flashing lights indicating the school zone at Muswellbrook South began operating this week, however it seems they are not yet having the desired effect.
The lights started flashing on Monday and were installed in a bid to remind motorists to slow down to 40km/h in the school zone.
Muswellbrook duty officer Inspector Brian Tracey said police had not yet seen a reduction in speeding since the warning signals became operational.
“Police are disappointed that with the introduction of the flashing lights, which assist the public with recognising school zones, there has been little or no effect on the number of people detected speeding in the school zone,” Insp Tracey said.
“Highway patrol police have reported they are still detecting the same number of people speeding through the area and we would like to issue a timely reminder of school zones, which are in operation on school days from 8am to 9.30am and 2.30pm to 4pm.”
Insp Tracey said police would continue to target school zones in a bid to reduce the incidence of speeding around schools and urged motorists to heed the signs and slow down at all school zones.
Muswellbrook South Public School principal Ian Ralston said the lights had not been expected to be up and running until next week.
“The school and parents are pleased the lights have been installed and are hoping for a decrease in the speed of traffic through the school zone.”