Transport for London (TfL) is set to trial new radar-based speed cameras in 10 different boroughs across the capital in a bid to cut speeding and increase road safety.
These new radar cameras are being trialled in partnership with the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) and they don’t flash once a speeding vehicle has been detected. Instead, they use advanced 4D and 4K technology to provide clearer imagery and can monitor traffic in both directions across as many as five lanes.
The identified roads previously used sensors embedded in the tarmac surface to detect drivers’ speed, but these new radar cameras will require no flash to generate an image. TfL says the new cameras will provide higher quality images and are more reliable than existing setups.
TfL reports that speed was a contributory factor in around half of fatal collisions in 2024, triggering the requirement to make London’s road network safer.
The most common types of speed camera, the bright yellow Gatso and Truvelo models, use more basic photographing technology and can only monitor one lane at a time and flash when a speeding vehicle is detected. The technology is similar in average speed cameras as well as variable speed cameras.
The identified boroughs for the new radar camera trials are as follows:
- Haringey
- Tower Hamlets
- Havering
- Croydon
- Hammersmith and Fulham
- Brent
- Hackney
- Ealing
- Sutton
Over the next few weeks, the new cameras will appear in 20 and 30mph zones across these areas.
TfL’s Director of Policing, Security, and Enforcement, Siwan Hayward, 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.’
As per TfL policy, the cameras will be calibrated and all signage will be checked before the trial begins and police begin enforcement.
What this means for you
Safety has forever been a huge contributor to the installation of speed cameras and lower speed limit zones. When the driver slams on the anchors, a car travelling at 20mph is less likely to hit a pedestrian than one going at 30mph, due to the shortened stopping distance.
Quite simply, the easiest way to avoid getting caught by any camera is to stay under the speed limit. But given how easy it can be to accidently creep over, we could all do with a helping hand. Happily, there is a useful and proactive measure that drivers can take; by popping a little radar detector in your vehicle. These subtle devices sound you an alert when approaching a speed camera to make sure you stay within the law. Our friends at Parkers have tested some and made a full guide here.
The message, however, is simple: speeding is dangerous. Therefore we, as drivers, need to use the road network with care to look after pedestrians, vulnerable road users (i.e. cyclists) and other vehicles. So, while it may be a little inconvenient to move along at a slow pace, it could be the difference between a serious incident and the person making it home that day.
Save on your car insurance
With increased enforcement and stricter speed monitoring rolling out across London, it’s more important than ever to stay on top of your driving habits – not just for safety, but for your wallet too. Speeding offences and penalty points can push up your premiums, sometimes significantly.
That’s why it’s worth taking a few minutes to compare car insurance quotes and make sure you’re getting the best deal. Whether your circumstances have changed or you simply want to check you’re not overpaying, comparing policies could help you save money while staying properly covered.
