Vandalism of Speed Camera Sparks Community Outrage in Plymouth

In the early hours of November 1, 2023, two men were observed vandalizing a street lighting column on Victoria Road in St Budeaux, Plymouth, resulting in the removal of a newly installed speed camera. The police are currently investigating the incident, which occurred around 12:10 AM. Although the speed camera itself remained undamaged, the structural integrity of the lamp-post was compromised, prompting highway contractors to remove the post and isolate the power supply.

PlymouthLive

The speed camera had been installed only months prior as part of a six-month safety trial initiated by Plymouth City Council in collaboration with Devon and Cornwall Police. This decision followed numerous complaints from residents regarding speeding vehicles, noise, and accidents on the busy residential road. The installation was particularly significant due to past tragedies, including the deaths of 24-year-old Destiny Harrison and her five-year-old daughter Linnea, who were struck by a vehicle on the same road in March 2024. The camera was intended to enforce the existing 30mph speed limit and improve safety for local residents.

PlymouthLive

The removal of the speed camera has ignited a range of reactions within the community. Some residents expressed frustration, attributing the vandalism to government policies that they believe impose excessive taxes and fines. One comment in the “St Budeaux and Barne Barton Community News” Facebook group stated, “If the camera was cut down, it’s down to local and national government insisting on strangling the general population.” Conversely, others welcomed the removal, suggesting it was a positive development.

PlymouthLive

Plymouth City Council acknowledged the incident, stating that the camera was installed in direct response to community concerns about speeding. A council spokesperson confirmed that the police had informed them of the damage, and the council's highways team acted swiftly to ensure safety. They also noted that the vandalism would place a financial burden on local taxpayers, who would be responsible for replacing the damaged lighting column. The council plans to reinstall the camera once it has been recalibrated.

PlymouthLive

While some community members support the removal of the speed camera, others criticize the act of vandalism as counterproductive to safety efforts. Local councillor John Stephens highlighted that residents had raised concerns about speeding traffic for an extended period, emphasizing the importance of the camera in addressing these issues.

PlymouthLive

The police investigation into the vandalism is ongoing, and authorities encourage anyone with information to come forward. The council has committed to replacing the damaged lighting column and reinstalling the speed camera as soon as possible, aiming to restore safety measures on Victoria Road.

PlymouthLive

• “If the camera was cut down, it’s down to local and national government insisting on strangling the general population with extensive taxes and generating fines. This is the response that will happen.” — Anonymous Resident

PlymouthLive

• “The spokesperson added: "The police notified us that the street lighting column had been damaged in the early hours of Saturday.” — Plymouth City Council Spokesperson

PlymouthLive

• “We will, of course, be supporting the police in their investigation and encourage the community to report any further suspicious activity.” — Plymouth City Council Spokesperson

PlymouthLive