The Community Safety Manager introduced the report which provided an overview of proposed changes made as part of a refresh of the public space CCTV policy.  She explained that the first Swale Public Space CCTV Policy was adopted in April 2020 and it covered a range of areas.  The policy had been due to be reviewed next year, but had been brought forward.  The Community Safety Manager outlined the key amendments that had been made to the policy, as set-out in paragraph 2.5 of the report.  She explained that section 5 of the policy, CCTV in Third Party Owned Buildings or Spaces, had the most changes and she explained that the level of fees would be dependent on the level of service required from the Control Centre and would vary from service to service.

Members raised comments and asked questions which included:

·         Welcomed the report;

·         concerned with the fees being on a case-by-case basis, rather than a set fee as this could end up being more work for officers;

·         it would make sense to have a price list, rather than negotiate on a case-by-case basis;

·         needed to consider the costs and ensure that the budget costs of matters within the Community Committee’s remit were fed into the Council’s budget

·         needed to consider maintenance costs and the lifespan of each camera; and

·         it was useful to have a map showing where all the CCTV cameras were, and the extent of the area they covered.

In response, the Community Safety Manager explained that third parties ranged from private businesses to parish councils and this would be reflected in the charges.  She outlined the pricing process and considered it would not be a laborious task.  The Director of Regeneration and Neighbourhoods explained that as this was a new scheme, officers were unsure at the moment what the take-up would be.  An ongoing review approach would be taken and the scheme would be trialled for a year.

In response to further questions, the Community Safety Manager confirmed that the annual performance report, set-out in paragraph 13.2 of the policy would be available for all Members.  She also confirmed that the list of cameras on the website would be updated, and that there were four or five Hawkeye cameras installed throughout the Borough.  The Community Safety Manager explained that there was a back-up generator in Swale House, the CCTV equipment was reliant on a maintenance contract, and the lifespan of a camera was about five years.  She added that maps could be produced to indicate where the cameras were.

The Director of Regeneration and Neighbourhoods confirmed that she would ask the Director of Resources about issues raised by Members in terms of the budget setting process and consultation with the committee.

Councillor Lloyd Bowen moved the following amendment:  That recommendation (3) be amended to remove the ‘case-by-case’ wording. This was seconded by Councillor Mike Baldock and on being put to the vote, was agreed.

Resolved:

(1)      That the refreshed Public Space CCTV Policy be adopted.

(2)      That the principles for charges for third-party CCTV services be agreed.

(3)      That delegated authority be given to the Head of Housing and Communities and the Director of Resources to enter into third party services and agree a charge.