CCTV - Procedure for the Release of Evidence

The Role of CCTV

CCTV's role in making Torbay a safer place to work, live and visit is going from strength to strength. The crime figures for Torbay are some of the lowest figures in the country.  The introduction of CCTV complements the hard work already undertaken in reducing crime and disorder.  CCTV is not the total answer to crime and disorder in Torbay.  Since its introduction partnerships have been established with the Police, South Devon College and Torbay Hospital.  In addition to this there are vital links to the Crime & Disorder Strategy and Torbay Safer Communities Partnership.

The primary role of the system is the prevention and detection of crime this is achieved by working in close conjunction with the police.  However there are a number of other uses these include monitoring traffic flow, assisting in the location of persons reported as lost, assisting animal and park wardens, monitoring litter levels monitoring day and night time activity in conjunction with Storenet and Nightnet.

The Operation

CCTV now operates a total of 233 cameras all of which are linked to the Central Control Room.  These are monitored and recorded 24 hours a day seven days a week. The cameras cover key locations in all three major towns (Torquay, Paignton and Brixham), including car parks, main shopping areas, three seafronts Torbay Hospital and South Devon College. CCTV zone signs have been introduced throughout the area so that people may be aware when they are entering a CCTV zone.  The system is operated in accordance with our code of practice.  This was based upon recommendations from the CCTV User Group and has been signed up to by our partner agencies.

The Team

There is a dedicated team of operators employed by the Council.  All of our staff have been specially trained in control room operations.  In addition to this the Control Centre was awarded a gold award by the CCTV user group in recognition of the standards achieved.

Subject Access

Subject to certain exemptions, you have a right to be told whether any personal data is held about you.  You also have a right to a copy of that information in a permanent form except where the supply of such a copy is not possible or would involve disproportionate effort, or if you agree otherwise.  Torbay Council will only give that information if it is satisfied with your identity.  If release of the information will disclose information relating to another individual(s), who can be identified from that information, the Council is not obliged to comply with an access request unless:

• The other individual has consented to the disclosure of information, or
• It is reasonable in all circumstances to comply with the request without the consent of the other individual(s)