New controls on household CCTV and video doorbells for council tenants in Wigan are included in proposals for new rental contracts. The council is currently consulting on new legally binding tenancy agreements for people occupying council homes.
Proposed clauses on recording and cameras
The proposed agreement contains a clause that would prevent residents from photographing, filming or recording council officers, contractors or agents without their express consent. The document also addresses the use of cameras in communal areas of council homes such as halls and landings.
The proposed tenancy agreement states 'CCTV equipment must not be installed in any communal areas of the building or estate'.
Councillor raises safety concerns
Atherton independent councillor Stuart Gerrard spoke about the issue at a meeting of Wigan council this week. He claimed the clause could weaken security for some tenants.
He said: "Part of the consultation is that council tenants are not allowed to have cameras in their properties. Two weeks ago, a tenant was in contact with me from an estate in Atherton. She was told to take her camera down over communal areas. 48 hours later there was an attack and the police were asking her had she any footage, it's mindless. That clause needs to be taken out of the consultation as soon as possible. Residents have the right to feel safe in their own homes and not to be dictated to by this council."
Council defends the proposals
A Wigan Council spokesperson said: "Technology and the way it is used within residential environments has changed significantly since the tenancy agreement was last reviewed. The proposed clauses are intended to provide clearer guidance around the use of CCTV systems, video doorbells and other recording devices, ensuring that tenants can make use of modern technology responsibly while also respecting the privacy, safety and wellbeing of neighbours, visitors and council staff. Changes are also designed to ensure council officers, contractors and agents can carry out their duties in a safe and respectful environment. While we recognise there may be legitimate reasons why a tenant may wish to keep a record of an interaction, we now kindly request they seek consent from the person or persons being photographed or recorded. These requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis. We remain committed to maintaining a positive relationship with all tenants, and our intention is not to prevent constructive engagement but to promote respectful interactions and provide appropriate safeguards for staff carrying out their work."
The consultation on the refreshed housing tenancy agreement continues until October 19 and can be found on the council website.
