Are you being unfairly targeted by traffic cameras in Derby? It's a question many drivers are asking after a busy junction became a significant source of fines. While some are calling it a 'cash cow,' city officials are pushing back against claims of a 'conspiracy' to catch out innocent motorists.
At the heart of the debate is an ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) camera situated at the junction of St Alkmund’s Way and Cathedral Road/Ford Street in Derby. This camera overlooks a yellow cross-hatched box, a clear indicator that drivers should not stop within this area. The purpose, according to the council, is to prevent vehicles from blocking this crucial junction, which has been identified as a point where ambulances have experienced delays due to obstruction.
But here's where it gets controversial... Opposition councillors have voiced strong concerns, suggesting the camera might be too aggressive and could ensnare drivers who make honest mistakes, not just those deliberately flouting the rules. One such concern was raised by Conservative councillor Matthew Holmes, who questioned the assessments made before enforcement began and whether the council was inadvertently penalizing drivers. He specifically mentioned that many motorists feel the camera is a "council cash cow."
And this is the part most people miss... A Freedom of Information request revealed that in 2025, this single camera generated nearly £55,000 in revenue, with 1,938 drivers being caught. Fines can reach up to £70, though a reduced £35 payment is accepted if settled within 14 days.
Councillor Carmel Swan, the cabinet member for transport, firmly refuted any notion of a deliberate trap. She stated, "I can’t talk about individual cases but I can say there is no conspiracy theory here to trap unsuspected drivers. I also cannot be responsible for people who do not follow road signage." She added that signage assessments would have been conducted in accordance with regulations.
However, the debate continues. Councillor Jonathan Smale previously described the camera as a "cash cow," noting that he struggled to see the signage and that traffic on Ford Street can back up rapidly, especially on a hill, making it easy to accidentally stop over the hatching.
A council spokesperson reiterated the importance of keeping these 'no stopping' zones clear, emphasizing the significant delays and potential obstruction to emergency vehicles, particularly given the proximity to an ambulance station.
What do you think? Is this camera a necessary tool for traffic management and public safety, or is it an overzealous revenue generator? Do you agree with Councillor Swan that drivers are responsible for following road signage, or do you sympathize with those who feel the camera is unfairly catching them out? Share your thoughts in the comments below – we’d love to hear your perspective!
