ULEZ Cameras Torn Down in Sutton: Vandalism Hits London’s Clean Air Push
ULEZ Cameras Stolen and Disabled in Sutton
Two Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) cameras have vanished from Woodcote Road in Wallington, Sutton. A critic slammed the scheme, tweeting: “It appears that the ULEZ cameras outside Girls’ have been stolen. I believe the ones down by The Duke’s Head have also vanished.” Another chimed in, “We’ll end up paying for that in taxes.”
Mayor’s Office Condemns Criminal Damage
A spokesperson for the Mayor of London called the attacks “deeply disappointing.” They added: “It’s extremely disheartening to see opposition to a policy used as an excuse for criminal damage. This petty vandalism of London’s vital transportation infrastructure is intolerable.”
Wider Sabotage of ULEZ Cameras Reported
- In West Sutton, a camera’s wiring was cut and a hand-painted “NO ULEZ” sign was slapped on a pole nearby.
- In Kingston, South West London, locals have reportedly smothered cameras with bags and cardboard boxes to disable them.
An anti-ULEZ protester joked about the sabotage: “I came across one of the ‘improved’ cameras in West Sutton today. Wireless is now available.” Another praised the gesture saying, “And a sign just to make sure they get the point across, I like that, it shows style.” One even wanted to “shake the hand” of the culprit.
Costly Expansion and Daily Charges
Data from City Hall Conservatives reveals 312 of the 2,750 new ULEZ cameras were installed by January 2023 but are not yet active. The entire expansion is forecast to cost between £130 million and £140 million. Under the scheme, drivers of non-compliant vehicles face a £12.50 daily charge inside the zone, which currently covers areas inside the north and south circular roads.
