Speeding Jet Skiers Evade Cameras at Conwy Harbour
Jet skiers have been reported traveling at speeds up to four times the 10-knot (11.5 mph) speed limit, often with children on board, according to a recent report. Conwy council has installed CCTV cameras at Conwy harbour to identify and prosecute offenders, but some riders have removed their registration plates to avoid detection and legal action.
Harbour Master Matt Forbes emphasised that only a "minority of riders" are responsible for endangering others by breaching the speed restrictions. He highlighted that there have been "a number of instances of dangerous behaviour" observed in recent months.
"Speeding up up to 30 or 40 knots with young children on board,"
"It tends to be in the narrowest area of the channel between Deganwy and the beacons."
The issue arises shortly after the installation of cameras aimed at curbing reckless behaviour near the Beacons slipway, where sailors were previously caught speeding. Forbes noted that the area features "clear unambiguous warning signs" at the Beacons slipway and at the exits to Conwy and Delaney Marinas, along with two yellow special marks indicating the speed restrictions.
"We've been working with the CCTV staff to capture it live, so when we are aware something is happening to film it," Forbes explained.
"What we don't want to do is bring one in and it be unsuccessful."
Forbes added that to successfully prosecute, authorities require evidence of the vehicle being launched before the speeding incident. The vehicle must then be recovered, a step he said they "haven't got there just yet." He also mentioned that the removal of registration plates suggests awareness among riders of the cameras' presence.
In response, the harbour authority has enhanced warning signage to make speed limits "very clear." Water patrols have been conducted over recent weekends, during which no behavioural concerns were reported.
