CCTV to hit speed trap vandalism

From the Echo, first published Tuesday 14th Oct 2003.

POLICE plans to install CCTV cameras to identify irate motorists who vandalise speed cameras are not being ruled out in Dorset.

Under proposals currently being examined, CCTV cameras would be erected beside the speed traps to curb the growing number of attacks which has already seen 700 cameras across the country burnt, pulled down or their lenses spray-painted to blind them.

This type of vandalism has already been seen locally following the torching of two speed cameras in Bournemouth during the past week.

The first camera set alight was just east of the Frizzell Roundabout on the Wessex Way, while the second destroyed was at Queen's Park Avenue near the golf course.

Matthew McKenna from the Dorset Safety Camera Partnership said: "We are aware that other safety camera partnerships are considering the use of CCTV and other methods as possible measures to protect safety cameras.

"We will be closely monitoring the situation and will work in conjunction with the other partnerships to assess the success of the various methods employed," he said.

"We are disappointed to learn that safety cameras have been subject to recent vandalism throughout the country.

"Vandalism is a criminal offence and if perpetrators are caught committing this crime, they will be dealt with accordingly though the criminal justice system.

"A two-year report published by the Department for Trans-port clearly demonstrates that by placing safety cameras at known casualty hotspots motorists slow down and fewer collisions occur."

There are some 4,500 speed traps across Britain. Each camera costs £35,000 when loaded with film rising to £60,000 for new digital versions.

Other options to protect the cameras include fitting them with sabotage alarms.

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