The carriageway by my parents house has recently been reduced from 2 lanes to 1 and reduced to 50mph due to it being an accident black spot. I agree with this as i was envolved in a serious accident in this spot a few years ago, but what has astonished me is the the mobile speed camera that appears most days (it was even sunday afternoon). It is positioned about 100 yards into the new 50mph zone and is hidden in a small white van wiyh very small camera logo on the bonnet which you cannot see, and the van has been driven into the very long grass on the side of the road that disguises its position . This isn't that unusual, but the thing is, this isn't a police van and is actually a private company who sends your details to the police and issues you with the fine which you pay to the police. The worst thing of all is that a neihbour has been done for doing 52!!!! I thought you were given 10%!! This is one of the most blatant money making schemes i have seen!! Is it going to get into the same state as these dodgy wheel clampers, charging £400 to release you car??

So if you are travelling on the a A491 between Hagley and Fairfield in the west midlands, don't even attempt to drive at even the speed limit let alone over it!

I know that bit of road well after having worked near Dudley on and off for a few years and used the A491 to get there from the M5.

It used to be a fast road and then they took it down to one lane - never saw an accident on tehre myself bu can it always looked dangerous with the cars coming out of those side turnings - especially in the morning.

Not sure when I will be back in that area again, but thanks for the warning.

Cheers
Peter

Well if they aint coppers next time u see it get ur self down there and launch a brick through the window, you'll feel so much better!;)

[Edited by TON3 - 7/21/2003 1:28:57 PM]

Just emailed a couple of people who live/work near there and got this response:

:(