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 Lisburn (Lisburn Commerce Against Crime) has advised that it will cease its current operating model, with the final date for agreement subject to transition arrangements.
Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has been working with CityWatch and key partners to ensure that public realm CCTV monitoring continues without interruption while arrangements are put in place for a new operating model.
2. Will CCTV monitoring in Lisburn stop?
No. Public space CCTV monitoring will continue.
The Council has agreed short term transitional arrangements to allow time for monitoring to move to a new long term model while maintaining the existing service. We are working closely with CityWatch and the PSNI to ensure live CCTV continues without interruption throughout the transition period and that public safety is not affected.
3. Is CCTV being reduced in the city centre?
No. The intention of the transition is to maintain CCTV coverage, not reduce it. The Council recognises the important role CCTV plays in supporting public safety and reducing antisocial behaviour.
4. Why is the Council changing the monitoring arrangements?
A review of CCTV monitoring arrangements identified that the current model does not represent the most effective long term approach and that there are opportunities to integrate monitoring with the Council’s existing CCTV systems.
The aim is to create a more coordinated and sustainable CCTV service across the Council estate that continues to support public safety.
5. 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 is currently working with the PSNI to agree the future technical arrangements for access to the system, including how live footage can be shared. The final level of operational access will depend on the compatibility of systems and agreed operational protocols.
The Council and PSNI will continue to work in partnership to ensure the CCTV system supports public safety across the district.
7. Will the existing cameras remain in place?
Yes. The existing public realm cameras will remain operational and will continue to record activity in the areas they currently cover. Reviews have confirmed that the current locations remain appropriate for monitoring areas where there is a higher risk of crime or antisocial behaviour.
8. 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.
9. 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 the service.
10. 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 that can provide similar functionality to the current scheme.
11. Who owns the CCTV cameras?
Many of the public realm cameras are owned by Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, while CityWatch previously provided the monitoring service under a partnership arrangement.
The transition will provide clearer governance arrangements, with the Council responsible for the overall CCTV service.
12. 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.
14. What happens next?
Over the coming months the Council will:
- complete the CityWatch transition
- confirm the future monitoring arrangements
- continue working with PSNI and partners
- implement a corporate CCTV governance framework
Further updates will be provided as the transition progresses.