A man from Sidcup has denied being involved in the vigilante damaging of ULEZ cameras. 

Joseph Nicholls, 42, of Foots Cray High Street, appeared at Woolwich Crown Court on Tuesday (August 1) charged with aiding and abetting criminal damage and sending a threatening electronic communication. 

It is alleged that on or around April 21 he counselled and procured another person to damage a ULEZ camera. 

Then on May 5 he is said to have sent a threatening communication to Yunex Traffic Limited via an online contact form. 

Yunex Traffic was awared a contract for the maintenance and installation of traffic technology in London in March. 

Nicholls pleaded not guilty to both the charges against him. 

Judge Andrew Lees set a trial date for June 2024. 

The ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) will be expanded to all London boroughs from August 29, following an unsuccessful challenge to the Mayor of London’s plans by five councils. 

Those driving more polluting vehicles will have to pay £12.50 a day to drive in the zone from that date. 

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In May the Metropolitan Police said there had been 96 reported incidents of criminal damage to ULEZ cameras across London. 

Detective Superintendent Daniel Smith, who is leading the Met Police investigation, said at the time: “We are aware of the active discussions online and the passion felt by some in our communities. We will continue to support lawful protest but criminal activity is not acceptable. 

“We continue to work with TfL to prevent further offences in the future.”