Request ID: FOI-0969-2425 Date published: 04 July 2024
You asked
27.6.24 clarification:
Just straight simple questions
Why doesn’t camera flash ?
Why is not visible from approach- hidden in trees ?
Why does it not operate at all times ?
Isn’t the above deemed as entrapment?
Hi
Just read this article concerning mention camera
Unfortunately I am a victim to this camera - I have used this road since November 23 but in April 24 started to receive 7 fixed penalties for speeding- camera in question is hidden high up in a tree and not visible on approach- isn’t your standard square yellow box and doesn’t flash ? Unfortunately I drive a company car I didn’t receive first offence until after the incident- again unfortunately over the next 6 working days being unaware I continued to follow and keep up with the moving traffic- all issued tickets show speed between 44-47mph - I now face a first time driving ban after 36yrs of driving
Question I would like answered
Why didn’t this camera work in a 7 month period- dates mentioned above ?
Why is it not visible from approach?
Why does it not flash - as first time would certainly been my last ?
Your date advised of install of 40mph sign in this article states sept 24 ? That’s in 3 months time !
Look forward to a response!
We answered
TfL Ref: 0969-2425
Thank you for your clarified request received by us on 27 June 2022 asking for information about a speed camera on Sandy Lane, noting the article you are referring to was not attached to your request.
Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Environmental Information Regulations and our information access policy. I can confirm that we hold the information you require. Your specific questions and our replies are as follows:
Why doesn’t camera flash ? Average speed cameras do not produce a flash. This is not required for the type of technology used. The cameras installed are Home Office Type Approved for their use.
Why is not visible from approach- hidden in trees ? There is no legal requirement for cameras to be visible or signposted. However, in London we do seek to ensure drivers are aware of the presence of cameras. “Average speed check” camera warning signs are in place at this location. Due to summer weather, foliage has grown across the network. Our asset operations team work to ensure foliage is cut back where required.
Why does it not operate at all times ? The speed camera does operate at all times and offences are enforced by the Metropolitan Police.
Isn’t the above deemed as entrapment? TfL and the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) do not seek to entrap drivers. The signage in place warns of both the speed limit and the presence of a speed camera.
Safety is our number one priority and we temporarily introduced a 40mph speed limit on the A20 Sidcup Road owing to ongoing surface water flooding and water sheeting which has caused a number of safety concerns. This presents a serious risk to road users and this reduced speed limit will stay in place until permanent drainage measures can be installed.
The speed reduction has been implemented under an emergency order owing to the significant risk to the travelling public.
If drivers would like to challenge the alleged offence or put forward mitigation, this will need to be done by way of a court hearing. Drivers should contact the MPS through the details provided on the paperwork they have received.
If this is not the information you are looking for, or if you are unable to access it for any reason, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal as well as information on copyright and what to do if you would like to re-use any of the information we have disclosed.
Yours sincerely
Sara Thomas FOI Case Management Team General Counsel Transport for London
