Most Active Speed Camera in Catalonia
A fixed speed camera on the N-II highway in La Jonquera, Girona, has become the most prolific in Catalonia, issuing over 62,169 penalty notices between 1 January and 30 September 2025. Located between kilometre markers 772 and 773 within the municipal boundaries of La Jonquera, the device operates in a 60 km/h zone, a significant reduction from higher limits on adjacent stretches of road. This sudden drop, combined with heavy cross-border and commercial traffic, has contributed to the high number of speeding violations. The radar began issuing enforceable fines in October 2024, following the transfer of the road to municipal ownership in 2023. In its first four months of operation (21 October 2024 to 20 February 2025), it recorded 50,553 fines, an average of more than 400 per day.
Decline in Daily Fines, but Volume Remains High
While the daily average dropped to around 228 fines between January and September 2025, the total volume remains exceptional. Authorities attribute the decline to increased driver awareness of the speed limit and the presence of the camera. The local council defends the radar as a road safety measure, arguing that the number of fines reflects widespread speeding before its installation. It maintains the 60 km/h limit is justified for safety given the area’s high traffic volume and proximity to residential zones.
The high number of fines shows many drivers were exceeding safe speeds. The goal is compliance, not revenue.
Driver Complaints and Ombudsman Involvement
Many regular users of the N-II have filed complaints, with some reporting multiple fines in short periods. A group of affected drivers has formed a platform calling for a review of the speed limit and signage. Concerns have focused on whether the road’s design warrants a 60 km/h limit, particularly after the change in administrative ownership. The Catalan Ombudsman (Síndic de Greuges) has examined the complaints, though no formal ruling has been published.
Broader Context: Other High-Fine Cameras in Catalonia
La Jonquera’s radar has overtaken others previously known for high enforcement levels. In Barcelona, the Meridiana Avenue camera issued over 30,000 fines in 2024, making it the city’s most active. The Entença Street camera generated €500,000 in fines in 2023, but has since been surpassed. Despite these, the Jonquera device stands out for the sheer volume of penalties in such a short time, especially on a national highway corridor.
Upcoming Road Changes in the Region
The Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda (Mitma) has approved a project to increase capacity on the N-II between the Figueres Bypass and Pont de Molins, involving an 8.2 km stretch from km 748.800 to 757.040. With an estimated cost of €111 million, the project aims to duplicate the road and improve connections with the AP-7 motorway. It is being coordinated with other infrastructure developments to create a continuous high-capacity route. The plan was provisionally approved on 11 October 2023 under the General Road Regulations, and public information proceedings have been initiated under the 1954 Expropriation Act. This development may eventually alter traffic patterns near the current radar site.
Drivers passing through the Jonquera section of the N-II are advised to pay close attention to signage and strictly observe the 60 km/h limit to avoid penalties.
Primary sources: boe.es, transportes.gob.es. Reported by diaridegirona.cat, Diari de Girona.
