The ‘eye in the sky’ initiative primarily targets motorbike-related issues and fly-tipping.
The North East England local authority announced its pilot at a council meeting last week having acquired its own drone and trained operators. The organisation is also looking closely at other areas that have already been using similar equipment, including Sunderland City Council, which uses the technology for public events, surveys and enforcement investigations.
Outlining the scheme at South Shields Town Hall, South Tyneside Council members told the public that drones would help support Northumbria Police in operations aimed at reducing anti-social behaviour including motorbike infringements and fly-tipping.
If this proves successful, the technology could be deployed for other uses, such as building and infrastructure surveys, coastal erosion and a number of environmental crimes. Advancements in drones ‘shows real promise’, according to Cllr Jane Carter.
‘The use of drones requires a lot of pre-planning, we are limited to planned operations rather than immediate deployment and very much subject to the weather conditions,’ she continued. ‘However, it does demonstrate how technologies can be thoughtfully integrated into our operations to enhance our enforcement capabilities and environmental monitoring.’
‘By securing external funding and training staff alongside their existing roles, we’ve been able to explore this innovative approach in a cost-effective and collaborative way. We’re committed to evaluating its impact and learning from other councils to ensure we make the most of this technology in a safe, regulated, and proactive manner.’
The council bought the drone using external funding, and is currently operating a single device.
Image: Ricardo Gomez Angel / Unsplash
More technology:
Hillingdon, Nuneaton, Exeter AI planning trials promise to slash planning delays
‘Yes Minister’ AI assistant to help local authorities drive efficiency
Leave a Reply