'Big Brother' spy camera for the A127 (From Echo)

'Big Brother' spy camera for the A127

10:45am Monday 14th July 2008

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ESSEX Police is spending £40,000 on new automatic number plate recognition cameras along the A127 to catch out rogue motorists.

The cameras will allow police to check passing vehicles against a database of vehicles and drivers who shouldn't be on the road.

Like the mobile units often seen in the area, the fixed cameras will flag up stolen cars and drivers with no insurance, MoT and motorists wanted by the police. Officers will also be able to track suspected criminals trying to escape along the A127.

The ANPR cameras will go up in September on special gantries alongside the average speed check cameras already announced by Essex County Council.

Both sets of cameras will be on the stretch between Southend's borough boundary and the Rayleigh Weir junction, where a new 50mph limit is being introduced. The ANPR system should be working by January.

Insp Dick Thomas, of Laindon Road Policing Unit, said: "The ANPR camera is a very useful tool for identifying vehicles involved in crime.

"It has it's limitations, but it's proved a very powerful piece of equipment in the apprehension of travelling criminals.

"I support it whole-heartedly because it is going to make our jobs easier for identifying stolen vehicles."

The plans were revealed in a report to the police authority's finance and audit committee.

They will cost £12,000 more than the original £28,000 estimate because of Essex County Council delays.

Michael Page, spokesman for the county council said: "The use of average speed cameras and automatic number plate recognition cameras on the A127 is a positive move.

"It will help reduce accidents and alleviate congestion at peak times."

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