Since 20mph zones have been introduced, there has been an issue over enforcement.

For many years now, the policing of the 20mph speed limit has been largely missing.

However, new statistics revealing the fatal consequences of speeding in urban areas are sparking a new response to the issue.

Capital clampdown

Sadiq Khan has pledged to issue one million speeding fines to London drivers by year-end amid reports revealing that 48 of 99 fatal collisions in the capital were caused by speeding.

Tickets issued for 20 mph offences have sharply increased by 700% since 2018, with nearly one in four cars slapped with speeding fines over the past six years.

Carlease.co.uk submitted an FOI request to unveil the London borough with the fastest speeding ticket.

London’s speediest borough revealed

Rank Borough No. of cameras per 100,000 people Highest recorded speed (2021 to Feb 2024)
1 Havering 10.20 144
2 City of Westminster 17.03 115
3 Brent 10.26 114
4= Enfield 13.45 111
4= Redbridge 15.12 111
6 Greenwich 12.37 107
7 Barnet 10.28 106
8 Hillingdon 13.84 105
9 Merton 11.18 104
10 Haringey 13.37 101
11 Hounslow 18.59 99
12 Bromley 9.71 98
13 Ealing 10.81 95
14 Bexley 12.51 92
15 Barking and Dagenham 20.46 89

For the complete data of all 32 boroughs analysed, please click here.

Accelerating action

The stats reveal that Havering holds the record for the fastest ticket in London.

Here, one driver clocked up an astonishing 144 mph – 56% faster than the highest speed recorded in neighbouring Bexley (92 mph).

Havering Council has rolled out a set of crash prevention steps in response to the surge in speeding incidents.

These include the installation of a raised pelican crossing, a raised pedestrian traffic island, and a speed table.

Wanton wealth

Despite having 17 cameras per 100,000 people in the area, the City of Westminster ranks second with the fastest driver caught reaching a staggering 115 mph.

Brent trails behind closely as the third speediest borough with a top speed of 114 mph.

Enfield and Redbridge are tied for fourth, with drivers reaching 111 mph.

Last year, 2,000 Enfield residents submitted a petition to address speeding issues on the A10 motorway.

Meanwhile, across the River Thames, Greenwich takes the sixth spot with the most reckless driver hitting 107 mph.

On the other end of the spectrum, Southwark, Harrow, Kensington, and Chelsea recorded the lowest highest speeds at 54 mph, 61 mph, and 65 mph, respectively.

Breaking the cycle

Shaun Money, from Carlease.co.uk, has provided some tips to help drivers avoid the habit, which can be easy to slip into. 

“Notably, there’s a stark rise in speeding incidents during the summer, with a 25% increase on motorways. It can be very tempting to speed, especially when you’re running late or feeling frustrated. It’s an easy habit to fall into, but also incredibly dangerous.

“To break the habit of speeding, start by planning your journeys with extra time to spare, reducing the stress of potential delays. Utilise cruise control on highways to help maintain a consistent and legal speed. Additionally, regularly check your speedometer and be mindful of posted speed limits to keep your driving in check.

“Implementing these strategies can make a significant difference. Stay calm behind the wheel by practising relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or listening to soothing music. Use technology to your advantage by installing apps that alert you if you’re speeding. By staying aware of the dangers and taking proactive steps, you can contribute to safer roads for everyone.”