Around 200 traffic light detector units have been vandalised across Cambridgeshire since the May bank holiday weekend, with most incidents concentrated in Cambridge city.
Since Sunday, 4 May, around 50 sites have been targeted, resulting in damage to approximately 200 detector units.
In one week alone, 20 junctions and crossings were vandalised, including nine damaged within a 50‑minute period on bank holiday Monday.
The incidents have occurred across the county, with the majority being in Cambridge – Cherry Hinton Road, Perne Road, Mill Road, Milton Road, Coldham’s Lane and others in Fen Ditton and Horningsea.
Most recently, a crossing outside Park Primary School in Histon was targeted, which uses sensors to allow large groups of children to cross safely.
The detectors, which are mounted on traffic signal poles, are being deliberately vandalised through the cutting of their cables. Each incident typically costs around £250 to repair.
In some cases, the damage is more serious, with whole units needing to be replaced costing anywhere between £250 to £1500.
The equipment plays a vital role in keeping traffic moving safely and efficiently. Detectors identify vehicles and pedestrians waiting at junctions, allowing traffic lights to respond to real‑time demand.
When the technology is damaged, traffic lights revert to a fixed‑time setting, leading to increased congestion and delays for everyone, as well as potential safety issues.
Cllr Alex Beckett, chair of the Highways and Transport Committee at Cambridgeshire County Council, said: “Vandalising these detectors is not only dangerous but stupid as it creates delays for all of us.
“Not only does it disrupt our journeys, but it’s also going to cost taxpayers money as we must pay for the repairs, which prevents us from spending that money on other essential highways maintenance work.
"We are working to repair the damage as quickly as possible, but I’d urge anyone with information or if they see anything suspicious to please let the police know.”
The council is working with the police and passing on vital information to support their investigation.
We’re working to replace the damaged equipment as quickly as possible, although the scale of the vandalism means some repairs will take longer to arrange than others.
If residents have seen any suspicious behaviour near traffic lights over the last few weeks, they are urged to report this to the police online, or by calling 101 and quoting the crime reference number 35/33284/26.
Any new reports of suspicious behaviour around traffic lights can also be reported through the force website.
