In a single low traffic neighbourhood (LTN) located in Stoke Newington, east London, a camera has had to be replaced an astonishing seven times in less than two years due to acts of vandalism.
This incident is just one among many instances where dozens of cameras have been sabotaged as part of a wider revolt against traffic measures.
The toll of such vandalism has reached nearly £500,000 for boroughs in the 12 months leading up to April.
Apart from camera destruction, town halls have also reported incidents of bollards being stolen, which were meant to prevent cars from entering certain streets.
Additionally, these authorities have had to deal with the realignment, repair, or replacement of numerous cameras that cover LTNs.
According to the data obtained by LBC, Hackney suffered the most significant damage from vandalism.
The Council of Hackney had ambitious plans to address air pollution by implementing LTNs, with three-quarters of its streets earmarked for inclusion in these measures.
However, this initiative has faced significant challenges due to the ongoing acts of vandalism and destruction.
Councillor Mete Coban, who serves as Hackney’s cabinet member for environment and transport, expressed frustration and disappointment with the situation.
He highlighted the burden it places on taxpayers, as significant resources are expended on repairing the damage caused by a few individuals who continually reoffend.
Coban affirmed that the Council is working closely with the police to identify and apprehend those responsible for the vandalism, as they are aware of the culprits, noting that it involves a small group of people.
Review of Traffic Measures Announced as Camera Vandalism Continues
The revelations of camera vandalism come at a time when the Prime Minister has initiated a review of various traffic measures across the country.
This review encompasses LTNs, Ultra Low Emission Zones (Ulez), and 20mph speed limits.
Rishi Sunak, declaring his support for drivers, announced the review following the Conservative Party’s unexpected victory in the Uxbridge and South Ruislip by-election.
During the by-election, Labour was considered the favorite to secure Boris Johnson’s former seat, but the Tories managed to retain the constituency by a margin of fewer than 500 votes.
The anger directed towards the Mayor’s Ulez expansion to outer London boroughs played a significant role in influencing the election’s outcome.
The newly elected MP for the constituency, Steve Tuckwell, confirmed that his campaign was driven by complete opposition to Ulez expansion.
Despite the backlash, Mayor Sadiq Khan reaffirmed his commitment to the Ulez expansion after obtaining a landmark ruling at the High Court.
This expansion will result in drivers with highly polluting vehicles facing a daily charge of £12.50 starting at the end of August.
The ongoing camera vandalism in Hackney and the broader debate around traffic measures have brought significant attention to the challenges faced by urban authorities in managing transportation and environmental concerns.
As the review progresses, decisions regarding the future of LTNs, Ulez, and other traffic measures will have far-reaching implications for both drivers and the environment.
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