NEW noise cameras are set to crack down on engine-revving boy racers and the use of illegal exhausts in South Gloucestershire.
The first noise detecting cameras have been deployed this week (Wednesday, November 9) using a video camera and several microphones to accurately pinpoint excessively noisy cars as they pass by.
This means that if drivers break the law by revving their engines unnecessarily or using illegal exhausts, they will be automatically detected.
The camera takes a picture of the vehicle and records the noise level to create a digital package of evidence which can be used by local police forces to fine drivers.
Roads Minister Richard Holden said: “Boy racers with their souped up cars are an anti-social menace in towns and villages across the country.
“This trial will help police clamp down on drivers who over-rev their engines and use illegally modified exhausts.
“As this technology continues its journey around some of the noisiest streets in the country, it is gathering vital data, which in future will help bring peace and tranquillity back to our cities, towns and villages.”
The trials are part of a £300,000 government-backed clampdown to tackle noise pollution on some of the loudest streets in Britain.
According to Road noise is known to contribute to health problems, such as heart attacks, strokes and dementia.
Trials are also taking place in three other areas around the country - including Bradford, Great Yarmouth and Birmingham.
The Department of Transport is not disclosing the exact location of the camera in South Gloucestershire in case it affects the trial.
The department launched a competition to identify the areas to host the cameras in April and extensive testing at a private test track facility took place to perfect the use of the technology for enforcement.
Now in the next phase, the locations for these roadside trials have been decided based on the impact to local residents of illegal noisy vehicles, after MPs across the country applied for the camera to be set up in their local area.
If successful, the cameras could be rolled out nationwide.
Atkins-Jacobs Joint Venture is acting as a technical consultant for the trials, providing acoustics expertise, design, modelling and asset management.
The noise camera is designed and developed by MicrodB.
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