Birmingham City Council has launched a major new road safety initiative for 2026, warning drivers of significantly stricter enforcement and a heightened risk of fines on key routes across the city.
New 30mph Limits and Camera Rollout
The centrepiece of the crackdown is the introduction of reduced 30mph speed limits on 27 busy roads, where the previous limit was 40mph. This change is now in force. Among the affected routes are some of Birmingham's busiest arteries, including Hagley Road West, Bristol Road South, and Chester Road.
Alongside the lower limits, the council has begun installing new average speed cameras on six key routes. These join the existing network of cameras, which already catches tens of thousands of speeding drivers annually. The authority has stated that new signage is being erected to inform motorists of all the changes.
A "Road Safety Emergency"
The measures are a direct response to what the council has declared a "road safety emergency." The stated aim is to reduce deaths and serious injuries on Birmingham's streets. Further safety equipment, including red light cameras, is also due to be fitted as part of this drive.
Cllr Majid Mahmood, Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport, emphasised the initiative's purpose. "When we declared a road safety emergency we promised to take action and this is what is happening," he said. "There is no excuse for dangerous driving. We are installing these cameras to stop those drivers who think it is acceptable to put people at risk by travelling too fast."
He reinforced the message that "Slower is Safer" and clarified that the scheme is not revenue-focused, as most fine income goes to central government. "I would be happy if not a single fine was issued for excess speed," Cllr Mahmood added, noting the policy aims to make 30mph the maximum limit on virtually all city roads.
Police Support and Expected Impact
The crackdown has received backing from West Midlands Police. Chief Constable Craig Guildford stated: "I fully support this initiative, which will hopefully reduce the number of people who are killed or seriously injured on our roads."
The combined effect of widespread lower limits and enhanced camera enforcement means drivers in Birmingham can expect a much higher likelihood of facing penalties for speeding from the start of the new year. The council's clear warning is that adherence to the new, lower limits is essential to avoid fines and penalty points.
