Speeding in Dorset’s 20mph Zones: What New Police Data Reveals

By Jake Brewer – BAJ accredited journalist| 26 February 2026

Fresh data from Dorset Police has revealed how effectively the county’s expanding 20mph zones are being enforced — and where drivers are still being caught out.

As Dorset continues its push to improve pedestrian safety, newly disclosed figures show a combination of mobile speed cameras, static enforcement and targeted patrols are being used to monitor compliance in residential areas.

A Safer Streets Strategy

The rollout of 20mph limits — introduced following requests from town and parish councils — aims to create quieter, safer neighbourhoods while reducing the severity of road traffic collisions.

Police data shows that enforcement relies on both automated detection and officer-led action. Notices of Intended Prosecution (NIPs) and Traffic Offence Reports (TORs) are being issued specifically within the lower-speed zones.

Where Drivers Are Falling Short

The 2026 disclosure highlights several key trends:

• Camera enforcement dominates: Most speeding offences in 20mph areas are being detected by mobile and static speed cameras.
• Off-peak breaches: Non-compliance appears higher during quieter traffic periods.
• New zones under scrutiny: Beaminster, Bridport and Gillingham — where limits were introduced earlier this year — are receiving particular monitoring ahead of “before Easter” operational deadlines.

No Extra Resources — But Targeted Action

Dorset Police confirmed no additional officers are assigned exclusively to 20mph enforcement. However, they remain committed to taking action “where there is evidence of persistent speeding”.

Community intelligence plays a key role. Where risk levels are high, the Dorset Road Safe Partnership may deploy mobile camera vans or direct patrols accordingly.

A Cultural Shift in Driving

Council leaders argue the 20mph rollout is about more than fines. Research consistently shows that even small reductions in average speed can significantly cut the number of serious or fatal injuries.

With new signage now installed across ten Dorset towns and villages, drivers are being urged to check limits carefully.

Compliance, officials say, is the simplest way to protect vulnerable road users — and support Dorset’s wider road safety strategy.