Half of speed cameras in England and Wales revealed as inactive

Surprise new Freedom of Information data has revealed almost half of speed cameras in England and Wales are inactive.

Experts are now urging authorities to take action and remove all non-working speed cameras. Keeping non-operative speed cameras in place is a major safety concern, says automotive tech specialist Road Angel. 

The company says they risk confusing motorists and could lead to drivers taking unnecessary action to avoid speeding – particularly as, because they are inoperative, there is arguably no longer any risk in that area.

The organisation wants police forces and local authorities to carry out an audit in their area – and begin removing non-operational devices as quickly as possible.

"We were shocked when our FOI request revealed that almost half of fixed cameras weren’t actually working," says Road Angel founder Gary Digva.

"We believe that if speed cameras are in place, then they should be operating. If a camera is inactive and remains so for many months, then it begs the question – why is it there?"

"Yes, it may still play a part in encouraging traffic to slow down… but it could also act to distract drivers and potentially cause an accident."

Digva added there was a precedent in place that means police forces and local authorities should take urgent action.   

Back in 2018, entrepreneur Shed Simove was banned from selling a dummy speed camera by police who warned him that he could face seven years in jail if one of his devices distracted a motorist and led to an accident.

"It seems the authorities now feel inactive speed cameras pose little threat," says Digva

The organisation now plans to step up efforts and urge authorities to make sure all fixed cameras are necessary and operational.