Google Street View car stopped

The car used by Google to take photographs for its Street View service in Google Maps had its progress unexpectedly blocked on Wednesday.

Residents of Broughton in Buckinghamshire formed a human chain to stop the car, The Times reports.

The villagers were reportly angry that it was an invasion of privacy and would attract burglars.

Google Street View: a first look

Google confirmed the reports and said in a statement: "Embarking on new projects, we sometimes encounter unexpected challenges, and Street View has been no exception.

"We know that some people are uncomfortable with images of their houses or cars being included in the product, which is why we provide an easy way to request removal of imagery. Most imagery requests are processed within hours," the statement continued.

Google Street View: top tips

Street View has already attracted controversy with Privacy International making a complaint to the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO).

Privacy International has also since accused Google of conducting a smear campaign against the organisation.

Be sure to get your hands on a copy of Web User Issue 211, on sale 9 April, for our special report on the Google vs Privacy International spat.

Do you agree with the residents of Broughton or do you have no fear of Google Street View? Have your say in the Web User forums.