The London Borough of Bexley uses CCTV to help keep people safe, support the prevention and detection of crime and Anti-Social Behaviour, assist in safeguarding vulnerable individuals, and help protect public spaces. CCTV is used in accordance with relevant legislation and national guidance to ensure surveillance is proportionate, transparent and respectful of individual privacy.

CCTV forms part of the Council’s wider approach to Community Safety and is used alongside partnership working, crime prevention initiatives and support from emergency services.

What is CCTV and why does the Council use it?

The Council uses CCTV to help prevent and detect crime and anti-social behaviour, improve public safety, support safeguarding activities, protect and assist authorised investigations and enforcement activities.

Where are CCTV cameras located?

Cameras are in public places such as town centres, shopping areas, public highways, transport-related environments, where there is a clear community safety or operational need.

How are decisions made about where CCTV cameras are placed?

Camera locations are determined using community safety information, crime data and local intelligence. Locations are reviewed regularly to ensure they continue to address identified community safety priorities.

Are CCTV cameras signposted?

Yes. Signage is displayed in areas where CCTV operates to inform members of the public that surveillance is taking place and where they can obtain further information.

Can CCTV cameras be moved to respond to local issues?

Yes. In addition to fixed cameras, the Council can deploy mobile CCTV cameras to help respond to emerging community safety concerns and temporary issues where appropriate.

Who operates the CCTV system?

The system is operated by authorised and trained personnel in accordance with Council policies, data protection legislation and relevant codes of practice.

How is my privacy protected?

The Council complies with the UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018 and the Human Rights Act 1998. CCTV is used proportionately, access to footage is restricted, activity is audited and systems are regularly reviewed.

How long is CCTV footage retained?

Public Space CCTV footage is typically retained for up to 31 days before being automatically overwritten, unless it is required for a lawful investigation, legal proceedings, safeguarding purposes or another authorised reason.

Can I request CCTV footage of myself?

Yes. You can make a Subject Access Request (SAR) for CCTV footage in which you are identifiable. You will need to provide proof of identity and details of the date, time and location. Requests may be refused where other people can be seen and their identity cannot be protected, or where disclosure could affect an ongoing criminal investigation. 

Requests are assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Can someone else request CCTV footage about an incident?

Requests from solicitors, insurers and other third parties are assessed on a case-by-case basis and must meet legal and data protection requirements before any information can be released.

Who can CCTV footage be shared with?

Footage may be shared with police, law enforcement agencies, emergency services, courts or other authorised organisations where there is a lawful basis to do so.

Can CCTV footage be used as evidence?

Yes. Footage may be retained and provided as evidence to support criminal investigations, civil proceedings, enforcement action or safeguarding activity.

How does CCTV support emergency services?

Recorded CCTV footage can assist police and emergency services with investigations, incident response and safeguarding activities where there is a lawful basis for access.

Does CCTV record audio?

Public Space CCTV cameras do not routinely record audio.

How is CCTV footage kept secure?

Footage is stored on secure systems with restricted access. Only authorised personnel can access recordings and all access is subject to audit and oversight.

Are CCTV cameras reviewed to ensure they are still needed?

Yes. Fixed camera locations are subject to regular review, and the operation of the CCTV system is assessed to ensure it remains effective, proportionate and aligned with community safety needs.

How do I make a complaint about CCTV?

Complaints about the operation or use of CCTV can be made through the Council’s corporate complaints process.