Flanders Deploys New Speed Cameras to Boost Road Safety and Safeguard Privacy

Brussels (Eurotoday): In Flanders, local leaders paused plans for more speed cameras after privacy complaints. VTC leader Hans Graux is worried about personal data misuse, and a privacy watchdog warned against too many cameras.

In Flanders, just outside Brussels, local leaders wanted to add more smart cameras to catch speeding drivers on the A12. But after a resident complained about privacy concerns, they decided to look for different solutions. Many towns have been using these cameras to read license plates, but more complaints have been coming in. The privacy watchdog has warned that too many cameras could affect people’s rights, and if the rules aren’t followed, they might stop using the camera images altogether.

Are privacy concerns over speed cameras in Flanders justified according to Hans Graux?

Hans Graux, the VTC leader, is concerned about the rise of cameras that collect personal information. He believes these cameras can reveal details about people’s lives, like their beliefs or places they visit. While local governments keep this data for a short time, it’s unclear what happens to it later. The committee thinks we should explore other options besides cameras, like better road designs. Graux also warns that speed cameras are often used for more than just traffic checks, which can be risky.

The watchdog is worried about ANPR cameras that are meant to stop drivers from cutting through neighborhoods. Some towns have even taken out speed bumps because a private company, which makes money from fines. This raises concerns that making money is more important than safety. The VTC wants local governments to be clear about how they use the camera images, while the VVSG thinks the watchdog is unfairly accusing the government of trying to make money.