Three roadside weather stations in Durham have been wrecked in what is thought by locals to be a protest against speed cameras.
The council has revealed that the weather stations located in Tow Law, Bradbury and Toronto were ‘deliberately damaged’, with residents suggesting that those responsible likely mistook the equipment for speeding cameras.
According to the local authority, the equipment is used to measure air and road temperatures, supporting the gritting process and allowing snow and ice to be cleared from roads effectively.
The council has since installed signs on the stations to inform the public about the function served by the weather cameras.
A council spokesperson said: ‘These cameras play a vital role in work to keep our roads safe, especially during the winter season.’
They added: ‘The cameras are not used to monitor the speed of vehicles or for any other law enforcement purposes.
‘We have nine weather stations across the county and it’s important they remain operational to provide accurate weather data for everyone’s safety and convenience. If you see anyone causing damage to a weather camera, please let us know’.
