Drivers want to see cameras that can automatically detect vehicles with illegally loud exhausts – or whose engines are revved unnecessarily – rolled out across the UK, a new survey shows.
Six-in-10 drivers (58%) questioned by the RAC said they would be in favour of so-called ‘noise cameras’ being widely used once the findings of the DfT’s trials, which began last October, are revealed.
Only a fifth (22%) were against the idea, with a similar proportion (20%) unsure.
The cameras, which are triggered by a number of microphones, can pinpoint vehicles exceeding the 74-decibel legal limit as they pass by.
Pictures of vehicle number plates together with recordings of the vehicle noise are then used by local police to identify and fine drivers. Trials took place in Bradford, Great Yarmouth, Birmingham and South Gloucestershire near Bristol.
A third (34%) of those who took part in the RAC study said they regularly hear loud revving engines or excessively loud exhausts.
This rose to nearly half of drivers in London (47%) and to 40% in Wales and Scotland. Half of all drivers (51%) questioned said they occasionally hear one or more vehicles with particularly loud exhausts.
Simon Williams, RAC head of policy, said: “Our research with drivers shows there is a very strong desire to put an end to the scourge of excessively noisy vehicles that disturb the peace all around the country.
“It’s plain wrong that those who have fitted their cars with modified exhausts, some motorbike riders and supercar owners can currently just get away with making an unacceptable amount of noise.
“Fortunately, the DfT recent noise camera trials may provide the solution. We hope the findings are positive and that the technology can be quickly and cost-efficiently rolled out to the worst affected areas.
“There is no good reason why cars and motorbikes should make so much noise, so the sooner effective camera enforcement can be put in place the better.”
Richard Holden, roads minister, said: “Boy racers are an anti-social menace and we have extensively trialled noise camera technology in various parts of the country over the past year.
“We are currently analysing data from the trials and will update in due course on any future measures which will help bring peace and tranquillity back to our towns, cities and villages.”
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