Nearly three out of five drivers (58%) want to see cameras that detect illegally loud vehicles rolled out across the UK, according to a new survey.

The poll, commissioned by the RAC found that 22% of the 1,424 motorists asked were against the idea, with a similar proportion (20%) unsure.

The Department for Transport (DfT) began a £300,000 trial of noise cameras in a handful of areas in England in October last year.

The technology involves using a camera and several microphones to detect noisy vehicles.

The camera records an image of the vehicle and its noise level, creating evidence which can be used by police to issue fines.

More than a third (34%) of drivers surveyed for the RAC said they regularly heard revving engines or excessively loud exhausts.

Road noise has been found to contribute to health problems including heart attacks, strokes and dementia.

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Vehicle exhausts and silencers are required to be properly maintained, and not altered to increase noise.

Non-compliance can lead to a £50 on-the-spot fine.

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RAC head of policy Simon Williams said: “Our research with drivers shows there is a very strong desire to put an end to the scourge of excessively noisy vehicles that disturb the peace all around the country.

“It’s plain wrong that those who have fitted their cars with modified exhausts, some motorbike riders and supercar owners can currently just get away with making an unacceptable amount of noise.

“Fortunately, the Department for Transport’s recent noise camera trials may provide the solution.

“We hope the findings are positive and that the technology can be quickly and cost-efficiently rolled out to the worst affected areas.

“There is no good reason why cars and motorbikes should make so much noise, so the sooner effective camera enforcement can be put in place the better.”

Roads minister Richard Holden said: “Boy racers are an anti-social menace and we have extensively trialled noise camera technology in various parts of the country over the past year.

“We are currently analysing data from the trials and will update in due course on any future measures which will help bring peace and tranquillity back to our towns, cities and villages.”

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