http://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/4815410.Taxis_in_Pendle_to_get_cctv/
TAXIS in Pendle are to be fitted with CCTV cameras to improve the safety of drivers and passengers.
The scheme is to be launched in the New Year and will provide equipment to be fitted in vehicles across the borough.
Initially cameras will be shared among the drivers as part of a 12-month pilot scheme, but if it is successful funding will be sought to buy more equipment.
Coun David Whipp, chairman of Pendle Community Safety Partnership, said: “We hope that these cameras will ensure the safety of both the drivers and their customers by preventing anti-social and criminal behaviour.
“Every Hackney or Private Hire vehicle will be fitted with window stickers warning passengers that images and audio may be recorded and used as evidence.”
The scheme is a partnership between the Home Office and community safety partnership.
The cameras, which are part of a campaign to reduce the number of alcohol related incidents in taxis, will be shared among all drivers and will monitor the whole vehicle, recording sound and images.
Jackie Allen, Pendle Council's taxi licensing manager, added: “We believe the cameras will improve the safety of our drivers and provide them with greater peace of mind.
“Any criminal behaviour, whether racist, an assault or robbery, will be captured on camera and will be used to assist criminal investigations.”
In November, Nelson cabbie Muzhar Hussain had his vehicle attacked after waiting for a passenger who then got involved in a disturbance.
Sergeant Keith Beckley, from Colne neighbourhood policing team, said: “We’re introducing this scheme in Pendle so that we can reassure drivers and their passengers that we’re looking out for their safety.
“We know that they have been successful elsewhere, greatly reducing the number of crimes committed.”
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