New speed camera on Uxbridge Road in Hayes seen flashing every few seconds

A newly installed speed camera on Uxbridge Road in Hayes has been seen flashing every few seconds, even though traffic appeared to be moving at a normal speed.

Footage shared with UB1UB2 on the evening of Monday 28 September shows the yellow roadside camera. It stands on the stretch of Uxbridge Road between Hayes Bridge and Springfield Road, and its flash goes off again and again as cars, vans and motorbikes pass.

It is not known whether the camera is enforcing yet. Transport for London has not publicly confirmed whether it is live, still being tested or not working properly. New cameras often flash during set-up and testing before they start recording offences.

Who runs London's speed cameras

Some drivers were quick to suggest the camera would bring in money for the local council. Hillingdon Council has pointed out that it does not own or run speed cameras in the capital.

In London, Transport for London (TfL) pays for, installs and maintains safety cameras, rather than the borough councils. TfL works with the police on enforcement.

Speed limits are enforced by the police. In most of London this is done by the Metropolitan Police's Roads and Transport Policing Command, and in the Square Mile by the City of London Police. Money from speeding fixed penalties goes to central government, not to the council or TfL.

Uxbridge Road, the A4020, is one of the main routes through Hayes. It links Southall and Hayes with Hillingdon and Uxbridge, and has buses, cyclists and pedestrians alongside heavy traffic. The new camera stands next to a shared footpath and cycle path, with homes and shops nearby.

What drivers can do

Drivers caught by a speed camera are usually sent a Notice of Intended Prosecution. This normally goes to the registered keeper within 14 days of the alleged offence.

Anyone who gets a notice they believe is wrong can ask to see the photographic evidence. They can also challenge the notice through the process explained in the paperwork. Disputed cases can end up in the magistrates' court.

Drivers are reminded to keep to the posted speed limit on this stretch whether or not the camera is enforcing. Concerns about a camera that appears to be faulty can be reported to TfL through its website or customer services.