Civil parking enforcement officers in Test Valley are to be equipped with body-worn video cameras from next month.
Following an increase in verbal and physical aggression, Test Valley Borough Council is to equip officers with the cameras.
A public consultation has been held by the council in which residents supported the use of cameras.
Evidence from other authorities where cameras are in use across Hampshire have reported more positive interactions with members of the public.
Deputy leader of Test Valley Borough Council, councillor Nick Adams-King, said, “The decision to introduce cameras has not been taken lightly, and I’m very pleased that we are now introducing them.
“Unfortunately, over the past few years, we have noted an increase in the number of incidents of both verbal and physical aggression towards our CEOs (Civil Enforcement Officers).
“The introduction of cameras will help keep our staff safe, which for us is a top priority. It is also important that we ensure our parking civil enforcement officers respond appropriately in difficult situations.”
All of the council’s civil enforcement officers will be equipped with the cameras from April. TVBC say that a full privacy impact assessment has been undertaken.
