SPEEDING drivers will be electronically shamed into slowing down at problem sites thanks to an increase in the number of flashing speed warning signs.

Durham County Council plans to introduce more Active Speed Signs, which show drivers - and other road users - their actual speed.

The signs, which will be used in two-week bursts as a 'short, sharp, shock,' will be backed by police enforcement.

A new Speed Watch Action Team staffed by the county council and the police, will be set up to react specifically to speed-related complaints.

The new two-pronged approach, which is to be considered by the county council's cabinet on Monday, aims to reduce the impact of speeding in neighbourhoods.

Environment cabinet member Bob Pendlebury said: "Active Speed Signs have been on trial at several sites in the county and early indications show they are not only popular with the public but are reducing speed at certain locations.

"We believe more of these signs should be introduced as an alternative to traffic calming."

It is envisaged that each of the county council's Member Area Panels will initially buy one sign, costing about £4,000.

Sites in each area will be identified and prioritised and the sign moved about every two weeks.

Coun Pendlebury said: "Trials suggest this gives an optimum impact and deterrent value without it becoming commonplace and ignored."

The new team will work with local communities, particularly those who have requested traffic calming measures, to investigate specific traffic management issues.

Initially running for two years, the scheme will include the use of a vehicle with monitoring and enforcement equipment funded from the county council's local transport plan. The vehicle will be manned by the police but both organisations will investigate problem areas and attempt to target and solve issues.