Barnsley to Mandate CCTV in Hackney Carriages for Public Safety

Barnsley Council’s Cabinet members are set to discuss changes to the Taxi and Private Hire Policy next week, which would require all hackney carriages licensed by the council to install in-car CCTV. As part of this initiative, Barnsley is set to require CCTV in licensed taxis, reinforcing efforts to improve passenger and driver safety while supporting the night-time economy by encouraging more drivers to work during late hours.

Pilot Scheme and Funding

In April last year, Barnsley Council secured £173,500 in funding from the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) through the Transport Innovation Fund. This funding was used to pilot in-car CCTV in hackney carriages, assessing its effectiveness in deterring criminal activity and improving driver security.

Council’s Stance on CCTV

Under the proposed policy changes, all hackney carriages licensed by Barnsley Council would be required to install a council-provided CCTV system.

Cllr Wendy Cain, Cabinet Spokesperson for Public Health and Communities, stated:

"Hackney carriages and private hire trades provide an essential service, especially late at night when other forms of public transport are not always available. The safety of residents, visitors, and those who work in our borough is a top priority, and by requiring CCTV in all hackney carriages we’re enhancing safety for both drivers and passengers."

She further emphasized that these changes would support Barnsley’s nightlife by ensuring more taxis are available during peak hours.