A motorist has called for one of Britain’s most infamous speed cameras to be taken down after it was reported that the number of serious accidents has risen sharply in the area since it was installed.
The camera is situated on the southbound carriageway of the M11, where it passes Woodford Green Athletics Club, and has apparently been catching up to 2,000 motorists breaking the 50mph limit every day.
But according to reports, figures obtained from the Highways Agency by worried motorist Hamish Birchall show a dramatic increase in accidents in the area since it was installed in May 2001.
The police however have said that the device improves safety on the road.
The figures reveal that in the seven years prior to its installation there were only seven 'slight' injuries caused by accidents in the area, which has jumped to 15 serious crashes, including one fatality.
Mr Birchall has reportedly been snared by the camera and has now demanded the device be taken down.
He told the Epping Forest Guardian: ‘I think it's important this camera is removed, because the figures clearly show that it has made things worse on this stretch of motorway.
‘The police took a year to respond to my question about the camera's impact on road safety, and when I received it on Sunday it didn't contain a shred of evidence to show it has cut accidents.
‘The Highways Agency's data indicates that this camera is making things worse on this road, and if that is the case then it should surely be removed.
‘The safety of drivers is surely far more important than the accumulation of speeding fines.’
A spokesman for the Highways Agency reportedly blamed the accidents on increased traffic, adding: ‘Signs are in place to notify drivers of the change in the speed limit and the safety camera.
‘We are satisfied that plenty of warning is given to drivers as they approach the camera.
‘Safety for road users is our top priority and we will continue to monitor the site as we do with all our roads.’