London to introduce ‘no-flash’ radar‑based speed cameras
London is set to trial a new generation of “no-flash” radar-based speed cameras that could make traditional flashing speed traps a thing of the past, as part of an effort to modernise road enforcement and reduce dangerous driving across the capital.
Transport for London (TfL), in partnership with the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS), announced on Tuesday (17 March) the launch of a trial deploying the advanced cameras at up to 10 sites.
The technology combines 4D radar detection with high-resolution 4K colour cameras, eliminating the need for visible flash or white light, in-ground sensors, or road markings – common features of conventional spot speed cameras.
Unlike older systems that rely on embedded road sensors to monitor up to three lanes, the new radar-based units can cover up to five lanes of bi-directional traffic from a single position.
Officials say this provides broader coverage, greater reliability, and sharper images for police enforcement when drivers are caught exceeding limits.
The trial sites are located on 20mph or 30mph roads in the boroughs of Haringey, Tower Hamlets, Havering, Croydon, Hammersmith and Fulham, Brent, Hackney, Ealing, and Sutton.
Installations are expected over the coming weeks, with cameras fully calibrated and warning signage in place before enforcement begins, in line with standard TfL and MPS procedures.
Speeding remains a leading contributor to serious road incidents in London. TfL highlighted that excessive speed or driving too fast for conditions factored into around half of fatal collisions in 2024.
The trial aligns with the city’s Vision Zero Action Plan 2, which aims to eliminate deaths and serious injuries on London’s roads within the next five years through expanded enforcement, safer speed limits, and more 20mph zones.
“Speeding continues to be a major cause of the most devastating collisions on our roads. This trial allows us to test new radar-based camera technology to ensure it meets London’s future enforcement needs,” said Siwan Hayward, TfL’s Director of Security, Policing and Enforcement.
“Upgrading our camera network is vital to maintaining strong, consistent enforcement, and together with the Met we are using every tool available to deter speeding, reduce road danger and save lives.”
Detective Chief Superintendent Donna Smith of the Met’s Roads and Transport Policing Command added: “It is tragic whenever anyone is killed or seriously injured on our roads, and speeding remains a major factor. 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.”
The initiative is part of broader commitments to upgrade and expand London’s safety camera network, including adding at least 20 new cameras in high-risk or community-concern areas.
TfL also plans to introduce at least 65km of safer speed limits on its road network and support boroughs in rolling out additional 20mph schemes.
