News report | 04-12-2025 | 10:36

Traffic safety at the intersection of Groningerstraatweg and Anne Vondelingweg in Leeuwarden is being addressed. This is urgently needed because there is a lot of speeding and cars repeatedly run red lights. This regularly causes accidents. The Public Prosecution Service believes this must change. Therefore, on Friday, December 5, a new speed camera will be activated that monitors speed and red light violations. In 2026, a second speed camera will be installed. The municipality of Leeuwarden, the province of Friesland, the police, and the Public Prosecution Service expect that drivers will adjust their behavior, making the intersection safer.

In recent years, there has been a strong feeling of insecurity among road users and residents. This is not surprising, as counts show that on average, red lights are run 38 times per day, and that is only in one direction. Additionally, the average speeds measured are much too high. On Groningerstraatweg, heading out of the city, some cars even drive faster than 68 km/h where 50 km/h is allowed. This risky behavior must change.

Schoolchildren and pedestrians

The intersection is on the route of many primary school children. They have no other option but to cross this intersection. With the number of speeders and drivers running red lights, this poses daily danger. Therefore, it is especially important for these schoolchildren, other pedestrians, and cyclists that drivers adjust their behavior.

24 hours a day

It has been proven that a speed camera has a positive effect on driving behavior and contributes to traffic safety. Behavior improves over a whole route, not just at the location of the camera. The speed camera was installed last month and tested in the past period. From December 5, 2025, all offenders will receive a fine. In the coming year, a second speed camera will be placed at the intersection. The cameras operate 24 hours a day and violations are immediately forwarded to the CJIB. After about three years, it will be assessed whether the traffic situation has improved. The Public Prosecution Service will then decide, in consultation with the police and municipality, whether enforcement with a speed camera is still necessary.