An application to install a CCTV mast at Stoke Lodge playing fields in Sea Mills has been rejected by Bristol City Council. The proposal had been met with a high volume of public objections and opposition from the ‘We Love Stoke Lodge’ community group.
The rejection of the school’s application to install a CCTV pole and camera adjacent to the gate behind the neighbouring Stoke Lodge Adult Learning Centre was largely based on the lack of detail provided by the applicant. In the refusal document, the council stated how the proposal was contrary to the ‘policies of the Development Plan’ and the school failed to provide information as to how the CCTV would not be ‘detrimental to the loss of privacy.’
The local community group, ‘We Love Stoke Lodge’ expressed their joy over the rejection of the application on Twitter. They had been campaigning against the proposal and had previously accused the school of using covert cameras to spy on the public.
READ MORE: Stoke Lodge row: Cotham School’s 'covert' CCTV cameras deemed 'unlawful'
Cotham school had previously defended the use of their existing cameras which they said had been installed as a response to the vandalism of their fence. It was later discovered that the cameras were a breach of Data Protection laws .
In the council officer’s report it states that there was a lack of evidence provided by the school that the new cameras would be helpful in deterring vandalism. Despite several requests from the council for further documentation and information, these were also not provided.
In conclusion the officer stated: “It has not been sufficiently demonstrated that the siting of a CCTV camera within the grounds of Stoke Lodge playing fields would adequately preserve or enhance the setting of the adjacent Grade II listed Stoke Lodge, protect trees on site or preserve the amenity of surrounding residents. Requests for additional information have not resulted in an appropriate level of detail with which to complete detailed assessment on any of these grounds and accordingly the installation remains unjustified when assessed against relevant policy and it is recommended that permission be refused.”
Further details on the refusal can be viewed on the Bristol City Council planning portal here. Cotham School has been approached for comment.
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