CCTV in Taxis on North Tyneside

Some drivers have raised questions about having cctv in their vehicles.

This is what North Tynesides  Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy states:

2.15 CCTV in vehicles

2.15.1 The Department for Transport Draft Best Practice Guidance recommends

licensing authorities look sympathetically on or even actively encourage the

installation of security measures such as a screen between driver and

passengers or CCTV systems as a means of providing some protection for

vehicle drivers.

2.15.2 It is not proposed that such measures should be required, as part of the licensing

regime, as it is considered that they are best left to the judgement of the owners

and drivers themselves. The hackney carriage and private hire trade are,

however, encouraged to build good links with the local police force, including

participation in any Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnerships.

2.15.3 Any vehicle fitted with CCTV must display a sign approved by the Licensing

Officer advising passengers that a CCTV system is in operation in the vehicle.

2.15.4 Where CCTV is in place there is an expectation that it is in working order when

passengers are being carried. The CCTV system should be maintained to

manufacturers standards.

2.15.5 The CCTV recording must be available for viewing by a Police Officer on request.

Any failure to comply with this request will be reported to the Licensing Officer for

consideration of the appropriate action to be taken.

So. on the face of it it’s ok to have cctv in your vehicle in North Tyneside. My only warning is that some of you may purchase and fit cctv only to be told at a later date that it does not meet NTC’s criteria and you may well find yourself out of pocket. The best advice would be to get the secifications of the cctv system you would like to purchase and take it to licensing and ask them if it would be acceptable.                          

Read the entire policy document here.

Tagged as: cctv, north tyneside council, taxis