Taxi Driver Online

No not the Scottish one, the semi-rural Sussex one, famous for having a Butlins and home of The Repair Shop.

Plans to place CCTV into taxis in Arun

Arun District Council is proposing that all licensed Hackney Carriages and Private Hire Vehicles have CCTV installed.

The plan aims to enhance passenger and driver safety by implementing mandatory in-vehicle cameras equipped with audio and video recording capabilities.

Panic buttons would also be fitted. The Council is asking residents, drivers, and businesses to share their views in a public survey before any changes are introduced.

The consultation runs from Monday 3rd to 29th November 2025.

Chair of the Licencing Committee, Councillor Billy Blanchard Cooper said: “We are undertaking this consultation to understand what customers, drivers and taxi operators think about installing CCTV in all Arun licensed taxis. This consultation follows statutory guidance which requires local authorities to consult so they can determine whether CCTV would have more of a positive or negative impact on the safety of those driving taxis or using them.

"That’s why we’re asking you to give us feedback to guide us towards a safer environment for drivers and customers.”

The results of the consultation will be discussed by councillors on the Licensing Committee, and a decision will then be made on whether to introduce compulsory CCTV

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IDFIMH

I don't see why this is even a matter of debate anymore if I'm honest - just make it mandatory and follow the guidance of Baroness Casey

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Think of how stupid the average person is, and realize half of them are stupider than that.
George Carlin

Reasonably predictable results here, I'd guess.

But the suggested cost of the CCTV system seems on the low side


Driver opposition over introducing mandatory CCTV in taxis

https://www.theargus.co.uk/news/2586178 ... ctv-taxis/

Drivers and members of the public are split over council plans to make CCTV mandatory in licensed taxi vehicles.

Arun District Council could be moving forward with plans to require the cameras, after a report into the issue suggested the council progress with the policy.

The decision follows a public consultation carried out in November 2025, which drew 184 responses.

Just under half, 47 per cent, supported the idea, while 42 per cent were against, and 11 per cent were unsure.

However, within this, drivers and members of the public are dramatically split on the issue.

74 per cent of respondents identifying as drivers responded 'no' to mandatory cameras, while an equal percentage of public respondents voted 'yes'.

Those who responded 'no' to the plans primarily cited concerns over cost and privacy.

Officers estimate the installation would cost around £555 per vehicle, or £24 per month to rent, and believe the cost is reasonable given the potential for improved safeguarding.

A report into the issue suggested that the mandating of CCTV would increase safety to both parties, reducing the risk of criminality, and adding protection for drivers against unfounded complaints.

The district currently licences around 240 hackney carriages and private hire vehicles.

Most licensing authorities across Sussex have already made CCTV a requirement in taxis.
Brighton and Hove City Council has enforced the use of CCTV in all taxis and private hire vehicles in the city since 2010.

A report into the issue is due to be considered by the council on February 27.

The rental cost is basically what most of the B&H, Adur and Lewes drivers pay.

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IDFIMH

And I wonder who that was down to.

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IDFIMH