CCTV and City Watch privacy notice
Who is the data controller for the information I provide?
Liverpool City Council is the data controller for all CCTV footage. City Watch is the council service area that manages this data on behalf of the council.
Why we collect your data
City Watch collects data to help prevent, deter and detect crimes, and improve public safety and reassurance. We may also collect and process your data to respond to requests for footage.
What is the legal basis for collecting and processing this data?
The legal basis for using your data in this way is as a public task. Processing is necessary to perform a task in the public interest or for official functions, and the task or function has a clear basis in law.
The basis in law for this is the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 which sets out a statutory requirement for local authorities to reduce crime and disorder.
Information we may collect
City Watch may collect geographical, personal and sometimes sensitive data obtained through public space CCTV cameras.
Do I have to provide this information, and what will happen if I don’t?
The data we collect using CCTV does not require prior consent as it would be impractical to request the consent of everyone observed through the CCTV cameras in public spaces, and also because the collection of this data is both in the public interest and in the pursuit of this legitimate aim.
If, when requesting access under your subject access rights, you do not provide your information, then we will not be able to process your request or search for your footage and provide it to you.
Who will your information be shared with?
City Watch may share your data with Merseyside Police, other national police forces, security agencies, Liverpool City Council departments, other local authorities, Merseytravel, North West Ambulance Service, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service and Liverpool One.
How long will you keep this information for and why?
We may retain data collected by CCTV for up to two years, although most CCTV data captured is overwritten automatically after 31 days. This enables us to provide support to our law enforcement partners and respond to your requests for footage after an event, such as road traffic collisions.
How will my information be stored?
CCTV footage is stored on secure electronic, digital storage devices. They are held in a restricted access area with high levels of data security, compliant with British Standards (BS7958).
Source of the data if we are recipient and hold it for others
City Watch does not hold data from other sources.
Will this information be used to take automated decisions about me?
No.
Will my data be transferred abroad?
No.
What rights do I have when it comes to my data?
You have a number of rights that are set out on the How to access your data page of this section.
Where can I get advice?
View our Help and advice page for more information.