THE Highways Agency has confirmed it is considering installing speed cameras on the A1.

Campaigners have been calling for safety improvements on the stretch between Buckden and Little Paxton for more than 20 years.

Last month, Buckden Women’s Institute joined those fighting for changes after raising concerns someone could be seriously hurt or killed on the A1 roundabout at the village.

This week the agency, which is responsible for the dual carriageway, said it was still considering options, including a 60mph speed limit and safety cameras.

The measures were due to be the subject of a feasibility study and a bid for funding from the Department for Transport. The outcome of both was expected to be known by the end of last month.

But when the Highways Agency was contacted by The Hunts Post this week it was unable to reveal whether it had been successful.

Alan Marnes, chairman of Southoe and Midloe Parish Council and a member of the A1 Safety Group, said the group had met with the Highways Agency representatives at the end of February and was “hopeful” of good news.

“I believe the plan is, if they can get funding, there will be four cameras measuring people’s speed. Hopefully that will enable us, if it comes to fruition, to get in and out of our village.

“Fixed speed cameras in that area may well be helpful but whether they will relieve the problems at Buckden is a matter of speculation.”

Mr Marnes, who has lived overlooking the A1 for 40 years, said he had been told the funding bid would have been up against “equally demanding” requests for cash to make roads safer across the country.

He added: “This part of the A1 has never been upgraded since it was installed in late 1968. It’s well known it’s the worst section of A1 in the country.”