Thousands more speeding cases could be axed over faulty cameras

The Department for Transport (DfT) said the Government-owned company will review cases as far back as 2019, when it began an “upgrade” of its variable speed limit cameras.

The department previously stated that action would be taken in relation to 2,650 “erroneous camera activations” since 2021 identified by National Highways.

Transport minister Simon Lightwood stated at the time that he had instructed National Highways to continue its investigations back to 2019.

The fault meant there was a delay between cameras and electronic speed limit signs.

This resulted in some drivers being detected as speeding when the limit had already been reduced.

Read more: Thousands of speeding fines could be cancelled after camera error

Read more: Drug-drive reoffending up 24% in a year as experts call for immediate suspension of offenders

Anyone affected would be “contacted directly by the relevant police force”, resulting in them being “reimbursed” and having “points removed from their licence where relevant”, the DfT said last month.

Tens of thousands of people’s speed awareness courses were cancelled by police forces because of the issue.

Earlier this week, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander announced that Tracey Westall, a non-executive director of the DfT, will be the “lead reviewer” of an independent review into what happened.

Transport minister Lord Hendy indicated on Wednesday that drivers incorrectly caught speeding might be able to claim money back if they can prove they suffered losses such as higher insurance premiums.