Taxi drivers hit out at ‘stealth’ speed enforcement as new radar cameras roll out across London
- Perry Richardson
- 4 hours ago
- 3 min read
Taxi drivers across the capital have voiced strong opposition to a new generation of speed cameras being introduced by Transport for London (TfL) in partnership with the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS), with many claiming the technology is more about revenue generation than road safety.
The trial involves radar-based cameras being deployed at up to 10 locations across London, including boroughs such as Haringey, Tower Hamlets, Havering, Croydon, Hammersmith and Fulham, Brent, Hackney, Ealing and Sutton. All sites are positioned on 20mph and 30mph roads identified based on risk and suitability, according to TfL.
Unlike traditional speed cameras, the new devices use 4D radar combined with 4K colour imaging. The system does not require road markings, in-ground sensors or visible flash, and is capable of monitoring up to five lanes of bi-directional traffic from a single unit. Authorities say this improves reliability and enforcement efficiency, while also modernising London’s safety camera network.
However, reaction from within the taxi trade has been sharply critical. Drivers responding to the rollout have widely questioned the intent behind the technology, with some describing it as a “cash-in, not crackdown” and others claiming enforcement at marginal speeds such as 21mph or 23mph in 20mph zones risks penalising otherwise safe drivers.
Industry voices question safety motives as TfL and police expand high-tech monitoring on 20mph and 30mph roads
Concerns have also been raised about the lack of visible deterrents. One driver noted that traditional road markings encourage motorists to slow down, while another argued that “a camera which does nothing other than fine you is not going to be effective in reducing speed”.
Others questioned whether the radar systems can detect speed continuously rather than at a fixed point, adding to uncertainty among drivers already navigating complex urban environments.
The backlash reflects wider pressure on taxi and private hire drivers operating in London, where rising compliance costs, insurance premiums and licensing requirements are already impacting earnings. For high-mileage drivers in particular, creeping over 20mph can result in penalty points that increase insurance costs and threaten licence status.
TfL maintains that the enforcement measures are grounded in safety data. The authority states that speed remains a contributory factor in around half of fatal collisions in London, and the expansion of camera technology forms part of its Vision Zero strategy to eliminate deaths and serious injuries on the road network. The plan includes increasing safety camera coverage and introducing at least 65 kilometres of safer speed limits across TfL-managed roads.
The rollout also aligns with broader policy direction under London Mayor Sadiq Khan, who has overseen the expansion of 20mph zones across the capital. While road safety groups continue to support lower speed limits, sections of the taxi trade argue that the growing enforcement footprint is creating a punitive environment for professional drivers rather than addressing the root causes of dangerous driving.
Detective Chief Superintendent Donna Smith, of the Met’s Roads and Transport Policing Command, said: “It is tragic whenever anyone is killed or seriously injured on our roads, and speeding remains a major factor, which is why our officers are totally committed to reducing that risk.
“Working alongside TfL, the Met will use every tool available, including new radar‑based camera technology, to deter dangerous driving and support Vision Zero’s ambition of eliminating deaths on London’s roads.
“This trial will improve reliability and deliver better quality images, helping our officers hold offenders to account and ensuring we have a modern and effective enforcement system that saves lives.”
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