MANDATORY recording cameras to improve safety for drivers and passengers will begin to be rolled out in Barnsley taxis this month.
Licensing bosses are set to provide an update to councillors on the move, which will see a six-figure sum spent on installing CCTV in all Barnsley-registered Hackney carriages.
While the council’s footing the initial bill via a South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) grant, maintenance of the cameras - which will record whenever the vehicle is in use - will then transfer over to the operator.
A year-long pilot scheme is set to commence before a review is carried out next April to determine the project’s effectiveness, the Chronicle understands.
A report, compiled by senior licensing officer Debbie Bailey, said: “It’s recognised that the Hackney carriage and private hire trades provide a valuable public service, especially late at night, when other forms of public transport are not always available.
“Security for both drivers and passengers is a high priority - all Hackney carriages licensed by Barnsley Council must have a CCTV system installed
“CCTV cameras can be a valuable deterrent to criminal activity as well as protecting the driver from unjustified complaints.
“For the purpose of this policy, CCTV relates to recording inside of the vehicle only.
“The CCTV system must be in use whenever the vehicle is in use.
“Any deliberate abuse or deliberate attempt to interfere with the legitimate use of the CCTV system will be given due weight and regard when determining whether the driver or proprietor is a fit and proper person to continue holding a licence.
“Warning signage must be clearly and prominently displayed inside the vehicle advising passengers that a CCTV system is in operation in the vehicle.
“A further review will then be carried out by April 2026 to determine the effectiveness of the CCTV and the availability of taxis in the town centre.”
It’s hoped the move will result in more taxis being available during night-time hours, a time when demand is high from revellers but when many drivers decline to work due to encountering potentially loutish behaviour.
Coun Wendy Cain, cabinet spokesperson for public health and communities, said: “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.
“These changes also support our night-time economy by encouraging more drivers to work during later hours, so residents and visitors can enjoy Barnsley’s nightlife with the confidence of a safe journey home.”
