New technology could crack down on ‘boy racers’ across Norfolk
New technology used to clamp down on ‘boy racers’ could be rolled out across Norfolk following a successful trial in a coastal town.
Sarah Taylor, Norfolk’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), has said officers will now investigate installing noise cameras at other locations in the county.
This follows an award-winning scheme in Great Yarmouth, which was chosen as one of four locations nationwide to test the sound-activated cameras.
The move would aim to catch anti-social drivers causing nuisance through excessive noise caused by revving engines and playing loud music - an issue of growing concern among people in Norfolk, according to the PCC.
Ms Taylor, who is currently holding a consultation to better understand the county’s policing and crime concerns, has said anti-social driving is one of the top issues highlighted to her so far.
She said: “This has a negative effect on people across Norfolk and I have received lots of correspondence about this form of anti-social behaviour.
“I am interested in what lessons can be learned from the trial, which has been extremely useful.
“We will use this to explore how this technology could be used more widely across the county in the coming months.”
The new technology uses a video camera in conjunction with a number of microphones to accurately pinpoint noisy vehicles as they pass by, automatically detecting drivers breaking the law by revving engines unnecessarily or using illegal modified exhausts.
A picture of the vehicle and the noise level recorded can then be used as evidence by local police to fine drivers.
Last month, a driver in Great Yarmouth was issued with a £100 fine and points on his licence after being caught by a noise camera installed at a seafront location.
The PCC is eager to hear people’s concerns about policing and crime in Norfolk through a consultation.
People can share their views on the PCC’s website until 5pm on Saturday, November 2.