High-tech, no-flash speed cameras coming to London

High-tech speed cameras that do not flash when they detect speeding drivers and do not need road markings are to be trialled in parts of London as part of plans to reduce road casualties.

The cameras use advanced 4D imaging radar capable of catching speeding vehicles across five lanes of bi-directional traffic. They can also capture distance, elevation and direction.

They will be trialled at nine locations across London with 20mph or 30mph speed limits.

Transport for London (TfL) said the upgrade was "vital to maintain consistent enforcement" while the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM)said it would also like to see action on other things like drivers illegally using mobile phones.

The kit combines a high resolution camera and sensor technology which make them more reliable and effective than standard cameras and produce better quality images, TfL says.

Most speed cameras can currently only detect speeding across three lanes of traffic travelling in one direction.

The areas included in the trial are Haringey, Tower Hamlets, Havering, Croydon, Hammersmith and Fulham, Brent, Hackney, Ealing and Sutton.

The technology is being trialled by TfL along with the Metropolitan Police as part of the Vision Zero strategy, which aims make London's roads safer.

TfL said there was no fixed period for the trial and it would continually assess the results.

Siwan Hayward, TfL's director of security, policing and enforcement, said: "Upgrading our camera network is vital to maintaining strong, consistent enforcement, and together with the Met we are using every tool available to deter speeding, reduce road danger and save lives."

IAM said the new technology was an "opportunity to change behaviour" as there had been poor compliance with 20 mph speed limits in London.

"It is, however, worth noting that average speeds in London are below 20 mph, so we would also like to see enforcement focus on things like drivers illegally using mobile phones at the wheel alongside these new trials," a spokesperson added.

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