Brand new traffic cameras will be introduced across the UK targeting minor motoring offences it has been announced.
The cameras will catch 50 times more motoring offences according to Government ministers.
Utilising a unique infra-red system, a trial use of the cameras is already known to be capturing 50 times more offenders than the current cameras in operation.
Known as ZenGrab Lanewatch, the digital cameras can be attached to lampposts and will not require advanced warning signage to signify their presence.
The cameras have already sparked controversy and critics have gone on record stating that the new system ‘borders on the immoral and is just a ploy to generate more revenue for motorists for trivial offences.’
The cameras, which are currently being tested by Westminster Council in London, have already detected a number of traffic violations according to the Westminster local authority. Over a four week period Westminster Council claims that the cameras have detected 1,076 motoring violations.
In contrast, current CCTV cameras in operation only managed to identify 271 minor offences, over a 12 month period.
The Labour MP for Central Ayrshire, Brian Donohoe, fell foul of the new system after being caught driving in a bus lane.
Commenting on the cameras, he said: “Motorists are being used as a cash cow. There is no other way of looking at it.â€
The technology used by the cameras has the capability to detect a number of driving offences including motorists who stop in yellow boxes or make illegal U-turns. Footage is then transmitted via 3G to a council hub spot, whereby they decide if the offence warrants a £60 fine.
The system was originally put to use during the London 2012 Olympics in order to enforce the Games Lanes reserved for officials and athletes. At present only London local authorities have the power to issue ZenGrab fines however, the Government now looks set to roll out powers to councils across the nation.
In a statement from Paul Watters of the AA, he said: “Sticking up cameras to enforce every minor contravention is bordering on the immoral.â€
In a statement from Adrian Ford, of camera makers Zenco, he said: “These cameras do not make mistakes.â€
The introduction of the cameras to councils across Britain is likely to spark outrage, fuelling the public’s perception that councils are targeting motorists as ‘cash cows’, with fines for motoring offences used as revenue generators.
Tags: Car Legislation, Driving Fines, Driving Laws, Driving Legislation, Driving Penalties, Driving Penalty Points, UK Driving Laws
