Specs Cameras

SPECS is a system of average speed enforcement. It has been in use sinces 1999 and uses cameras that are linked together to cover a length of road. It is mainly used at known accident locations and roadworks.

The cameras use automatic numberplate recognition technology. The numberplate of a vehicle is read as it passes a camera. It is then read again by a separate camera further along the road. If the average speed is over a certain level above that set by the local police authority, the numberplate, speed and images are logged and a speeding ticket can be automatically issued.

Proponents of the Specs system have statistics that suggest considerable road safety benefits accrue from the specs system. Benefits include fewer accidents and less damage to the environment.

The new Specs3 system will link multiple cameras along a network of roads rather than earlier systems which link just two cameras. Specs cameras are not infallible and common defences can still apply.

Location of permanent Specs locations

Northern Ireland
A1
A2

Scotland
Strathclyde
A77

England
South Yorkshire
A616

Northamptonshire
A428
A43

Gloucestershire
Linden and Podmore

London
Upper Thames Street
Tower Bridge