MOTORISTS are being warned to expect a string of tough measures designed to make Lancashire's roads safer.

And police chiefs have revealed the clampdown is set to lead to a massive increase in the number of speed cameras on the county's roads.

The news came as the Government announced plans designed to drastically cut down road casualties were announced in the House of Commons.

Eight pilot forces are currently testing out a system where extra speed cameras have been installed. The extra money raised through fines is used to spend on new road safety measures.

Police in Lancashire are keen to adopt the system and are preparing an application to send off to the Home Office. Chief Inspector Ian Bell from Lancashire's Road Policing Unit is predicting a string of stringent measures in the months ahead.

Proposals on the drawing board include:

A massive increase in the number of road-side cameras.

A lowering of speed limits in residential areas and roads around schools.

A lowering of the legal driving driving limit from 80 milligrams of alcohol in breath to 50 milligrams.

Increased powers for the police to carry out roadside breath tests.

Tougher sentencing powers for courts for dangerous diving and speeding.

Chief Inspector Bell said: "We have been set particularly tough targets for reducing the number of road casualties in Lancashire.

"The Government wants the number of people injured and killed by 40 per cent by the Year 2010. The target for children is even tougher at 50 per cent.

"If we are to achieve those targets then we will have to introduce a number of stringent measures." He added: "The people of Lancashire gave us a very clear message through the Crime and Disorder audits carried out over a year ago on road safety issues and the Chief Constable recognises the target setting approach to casualty reduction is wholly appropriate to focus the efforts of the force and ensure the people of Lancashire feel safe, involved and reassured.

"The development of a funding system that leads to fine revenue returning to road safety is supported by the force which is currently working on a bid to be included in the second round of forces evaluating the effect of this system."

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