Noise Detecting Cameras to be Trialled Across the UK
In June 2017 the government announced it would make it an offence if a vehicle's exhaust produced excessive noise when it was heard from 25 metres away from the rear of the vehicle.
Now, thanks to the trial of new technology, motorists suspected of causing this excessive noise could soon be snapped by noise-detecting cameras.
Where are the trials?
Back in April, the Department for Transport ran a competition to identify the best areas to run the trials. The devices are to be trialled across 4 UK locations and are designed to clamp down on the so-called "boy racer" culture in the UK.
The trials will be conducted in Keighley, Birmingham, South Gloucestershire and Great Yarmouth for two weeks at a time.
The Technology
The government is investing £4 million in new technology that will allow the police to use automatic cameras as part of a crackdown on disturbances caused by loud music, motorbikes, and other vehicles.
The new device precisely locates overly noisy motorists as they pass by using a video camera and several microphones. This system means violating drivers will be automatically identified if they use illegal exhaust systems or rev their engines excessively.
The captured data helps local police to build a digital package of evidence that the local police can use to fine drivers.
The cameras can be used to tackle car-related crime including speeding and dangerous driving as well as anti-social behaviour (ASB).
They can also be fitted to unmarked police cars in order to clamp down on the boy racer culture in certain parts of the UK.
Why now?
Noise cameras have been around for some time but haven’t been used in this context before. The move comes after a public consultation showed overwhelming support for measures that would reduce the noise levels emitted by cars with modified exhausts.
The rules for exhaust systems are strict: the system must not be modified, replaced with an after-market part, or altered in anyway. The rule applied only to exhaust systems that had been modified or replaced with an after-market part or system.
Transport Secretary Anne-Marie Trevelyan said:
“Rowdy road drivers beware – these new cameras will help the police clampdown on those who break the legal noise limits or use illegal modified exhausts to make excessive noise in our communities.
We’ll be working closely with the local authorities and police to share any findings, and I hope that this technology paves the way for quieter, peaceful streets across the country.”
Government research has found that excessive noise pollution can contribute to health problems such as heart attacks, strokes and dementia. They estimate the annual cost of urban road noise could be up to £10 billion.
To find out more about the trials, click here.