NEW speed cameras which work in 20mph zones are not being introduced in Sussex.

Cameras capable of detecting speeding motorists in 20mph zones are being made available to councils for the first time thanks to a technological advance.

But they will not become a fixture in Sussex in the immediate future with road traffic experts and 20mph campaigners focusing more on changing behaviour rather than enforcement.

Some councils across the country are interested in the new digital speed cameras now they have been approved by the Home Office.

At present, there are only a handful of cameras in the country capable of monitoring 20mph zones, as most models cannot operate at lower speeds.

Despite the breakthrough, the new cameras – which use automatic number plate recognition and 3G mobile connection to share data – are unlikely to be seen in Sussex anytime soon.

A Brighton and Hove City Council spokesman said the new cameras had not been discussed.

The spokesman said: “We’re using a number of vehicle- activated signs to remind drivers of the limits and these are generally regarded as effective. “Our main interest is in safer driving rather than fining people.”

Phil Henty, operations manager at Sussex Safer Roads Partnership, said speed cameras in 20mph areas would be considered.

Mr Henty added: “The vast majority of drivers do adjust their driving in 20mph areas. However, those that don’t can expect to be challenged by the police.

“There are speed cameras which can enforce 20mph areas but there are no plans at this time to introduce speed cameras into existing 20mph areas in Sussex.”

The stance of transport decision makers was supported by 20mph campaigners.

Stephen Young, of Living Streets Brighton and Hove, said that getting motorist to drive at 20mph was partly about enforcement but mainly about changing behaviour.

He said: “Speed cameras have a role to play but we can’t rely on them. There are many ways to change people’s behaviour and it’s mainly about getting people to realise that driving at 20mph is better for all concerned and I think, over time, we will see a change in the same way that drink driving became unacceptable.”

Fellow campaigner Duncan Kay said 20mph should be the default speed for residential streets.

He added: “Ultimately, the safety of all road users, particularly children, is more important than drivers trying to save a few seconds while driving on residential streets.”