ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) Support is part of
crime operations based at Police HQ in Winsford. ANPR can read
registrations at the rate of one per second. The system matches the
recorded details against lists which are stored within it, relating
to vehicles with no tax, insurance, or that are involved in
criminal activity. It is a valuable tool in the fight against crime
and serious motoring offences.
There are static sites throughout Cheshire, in addition to
equipment fitted within police vehicles. These mobile units allow
deployment of ANPR to various parts of the county, which could be
potential crime hot spots. It also facilitates joint overt and
covert operations with other forces/agencies.
The technology can help in the fight against cross-border crime
and terrorism, as well as acting as a great deterrent. ANPR is a
benefit to all road users, helping to significantly reduce the
amount of uninsured drivers on the roads.
ANPR cameras are not used to catch speeding or otherwise
law-abiding motorists. ANPR cameras are not used to generate money
for the government or other agencies.
The use of ANPR fully complies with the Data Protection Act 1998
and the Human Rights Act 1998.