More than two-thirds of professional drivers are opposed to the introduction of new ‘stealth’ speed cameras, an online poll has shown.
The new cameras, which have been proposed by the Highways Agency to enforce the 70mph motorway speed limit, are likely to be painted dull grey instead of the usual bright yellow.
They will be positioned on busy sections of the most important motorways, including the M1, M6 and M25.
Previously, speed cameras have been used to enforce variable speed limits on stretches of motorway undergoing repairs and alterations.
The new cameras are designed for use on ‘smart’ sections, where traffic flow is controlled by a variety of methods.
According to the Highways Agency, ‘smart’ motorways prevent traffic jams and assist flow by controlling speed limits and opening hard shoulders when required.
However, critics claim the cameras are aimed at increasing income through fines and not at improving road safety.
Kjell Anderton, a TrackCompare director, said: “There’s no doubt most professional drivers believe the cameras will be introduced simply to help the government raise additional funds.”
The TrackCompare poll ran for ten days in February, with visitors being asked if they supported the introduction of new ‘stealth’ speed cameras, 70% said no.
Andrew Fraser - 11/03/2014 13:54
The sheer stupid, dullness of the speed camera approach beggars belief. If there's really a need to limit top speeds then ISA's the way to go, surely. But I guess there are too many on the make from speed cameras. Oh! By the way, if there's anyone out there who wants to know why the speed camera approach is so dumb, they could do worse than have a look at a real criminologist's research: http://www.keele.ac.uk/criminology/people/helenwells/ http://www.ashgate.com/isbn/9781409430896 Why on earth do we leave such important matters to politicians and policemen?