Disgruntled drivers strike again as speed cameras set on fire in Rochdale – but taxpayers foot repair bill

By Dean Wilkins

Disgruntled motorists struck again in Rochdale after two speed cameras were ignited last month – but both are now being repaired.

Vandals set alight the road safety cameras on Albert Royds Street for the second time this year but work is underway to fix the damage caused.

Rochdale Council and the Greater Manchester Casualty Reduction Partnership are having to foot the bill as the money cannot be reclaimed from speeding fines.

Councillor Jacqueline Beswick, Cabinet Member for Highways & Engineering at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “I’m sure many local residents were as appalled as I was by this vandalism and I’m pleased that the safety cameras are being replaced so quickly.

“Discouraging drivers from speeding is vital to reducing the number of casualties on our roads and the safety cameras on Albert Royds Street have helped to achieve this.

“The vandals who did this should have a hard think about the potential cost of their actions in terms of lives, injuries and taxpayers’ money.”

Any money generated by fines is processed and accepted by Her Majesty's Courts and Tribunal Service (HMCTS) and not returned to the partnership.

Karen Delaney, Communications Officer for the Partnership added: “The only income received directly to the Partnership as a result of offences is from those drivers who choose where appropriate to take a Speed Awareness Course.”

Anyone with information about the crime should contact Greater Manchester Police on its non-emergency telephone number, 101, or speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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