The Council has published Frequently Asked Questions to provide an update in relation to Public Realm CCTV monitoring in Lisburn Castlereagh.
1. What is happening to Citywatch?
CityWatch have entered into voluntary liquidation and the service has success fully transitioned to the Council.
2. Is City Centre CCTV still being recorded and monitored?
The Council has transitional arrangements in place which allows for the recording and monitoring of the City Centre cameras. We continue to work closely with PSNI to ensure that public safety is not affected.
3. Will the Police still be able to use the CCTV system?
Yes. The CCTV system will continue to support the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) in preventing and investigating crime. CCTV footage will continue to be available to the PSNI as evidence and to assist operational policing where required. The Council and PSNI will continue to work in partnership to ensure the CCTV system supports public safety across the district.
4. Will the existing cameras remain in place?
Yes. The existing former Citywatch public realm cameras will remain operational and will continue to record activity in the areas they currently cover however in line with our draft policy the need for cameras in specific locations are kept under review.
5. Are the CCTV cameras being upgraded?
Many of the cameras across the Council area have already been upgraded to modern digital (IP) technology, improving image quality and system reliability. These upgrades also allow greater flexibility in how and where cameras are monitored.
6. Will businesses still benefit from the CCTV system?
Yes. Public realm CCTV plays an important role in:
- reducing crime and antisocial behaviour
- supporting local businesses
- providing evidence to assist police investigations
- reassuring residents and visitors
The Council recognises the importance of CCTV to the local business community and is committed to maintaining an appropriate and proportionate service.
7. What will happen to the CityWatch radio system used by businesses?
The Council is exploring options to maintain communication links between businesses, CCTV operators and the police, including modern digital communication systems.
8. Who owns the CCTV cameras?
The public realm cameras are now in the ownership of the Council.
9. How is CCTV regulated and monitored?
The Council operates CCTV systems in accordance with:
- Data Protection legislation
- Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) guidance
- Council CCTV policies and procedures
These rules ensure CCTV is used lawfully, proportionately and for the purposes of public safety.
10. What happens next?
- Officers will continue working with PSNI and partners to ensure appropriate and proportionate CCTV surveillance
- Consultation on our draft policy
- Invest in improving our systems