Halfords Driver Caught Ditching Number Plate to Dodge Low Traffic Neighbourhood Cameras
Shocking footage has surfaced showing a Halfords Autocentre vehicle flouting London’s Low Traffic Neighbourhood (LTN) rules – by removing its front number plate to avoid detection. The clip shows the van reversing with hazard lights on, number plate missing, then sneaking past barriers designed to block rat-running drivers.
Number Plate Removed to Beat LTN Cameras
The incident took place on a residential street in Enfield, where LTNs aim to stop through-traffic clogging little roads and making life safer for cyclists and pedestrians. The driver is caught on camera pulling off the number plate, seemingly to dodge a fine for breaching the scheme.
Sarah Berry, who posted the video, called out Halfords for the irony. “Considering @Halfords_uk are a bike company, it’s really bad to see this disrespect for measures designed to protect cyclists and pedestrians,” she said.
Halfords Pulls Driver, Launches Investigation
Halfords responded swiftly: “Thanks for bringing this to our attention @SarahJ_Berry. We take road safety seriously and have immediately removed the driver from the road while launching a full investigation.”
LTNs Spark Controversy Across London
The incident comes amid heated debate over LTNs and new cycling lanes across the capital. Proponents argue these schemes slash emissions and encourage greener travel. Critics claim they cause traffic chaos, longer journeys, and headaches for delivery drivers and commuters.
Even some public figures have backed the Halfords driver. Talkradio host Cristo Foufas defended them, while Wandsworth council recently scrapped their LTN after fierce pushback and claims of emergency access problems.
The Big Picture: Road Safety vs. Road Rage
- Planters and barriers are being installed to stop “rat-running”
- Drivers caught removing plates to avoid fines risk penalties
- Bike-friendly companies are expected to lead on road safety
- The debate over LTNs continues to divide Londoners
Halfords has pledged to get to the bottom of this “isolated incident” and reassured customers they remain firmly committed to road safety.
