SPEED cameras installed to calculate the average speed of drivers travelling through a stretch of roadworks could remain in place until the summer.

The cameras have been put along the A500 to police a 40mph speed limit, which has been introduced along a two-mile stretch of roadworks between Etruria and Porthill Bank.

The works are aimed at improving safety with a new road surface, lighting and barriers.

The Highways Agency says the cameras have been installed to protect drivers and workers while construction of a new central reservation is carried out.

But the cameras, which clock average speeds along the stretch of road, will remain longer.

Cameras could now stay in place until the roadworks are complete, which is expected to be July.

Highways Agency spokesman Nathan Wallis said: "The speed cameras will remain in place for the foreseeable future.

"It depends on how long the work on the central carriageway takes. They could be there until the roadworks are complete.

"The cameras are there for the safety of the public and our road workers. As we are lifting the central reservation, there's heavy machinery and gaps in the safety barriers.

"Although we are not working on the road during the day time, it makes sense to leave the machinery out because it saves time."

He added: "We are not doing it to add additional delays, or to catch people out. It is to protect people."

Police and highways officials have previously been accused of operating a "money-making racket" by positioning cameras next to the roadworks when no work is carried out during daylight hours.

Before the cameras were installed, speed camera vans were used to enforce the temporary speed limits. But drivers complained the vans were only ever out in the day.

Yesterday, road signs highlighted that the new speed cameras were not yet in use. But the Highways Agency said they would be working before the end of the week.

Driver Phil Aggus, aged 26, a sales executive from Porthill, said: "It's a lot of rubbish.

"I can understand having the cameras while people are working, but they only ever work at night.

"At the moment there are signs saying 'police cameras', then another sign saying they are not in use – it's like an incentive to speed."

Fitness instructor Joanne Gill, aged 23, from Porthill, said: "I work near the Britannia Stadium and the roadworks can add an extra 10 minutes on to your journey on the A500."

Retired Anthony Mulroy, aged 66, of Davenport Street, Burslem, said: "If the speed cameras are there for safety, then fair enough. But I think the roadworks are a waste of time. I don't think there was any problem with the A500 before."

Mr Mulroy's wife Christine, aged 65, said: "The road was fine before the roadworks. It gets a bit held up, but I think it is a waste of money."

Retired Geoff Maskew, aged 62, of Wellington Street, Wolstanton, said: "I think you are an idiot if you get caught by speed cameras. The signs are there. If you get caught you've only got yourself to blame."