Residents throwing used nappies, women’s hygiene products and furniture from up to 17 storeys high have been caught thanks to cameras using AI. Motion-sensitive cameras installed on the Broadwater Farm estate in Tottenham have captured people throwing items including glass bottles and gym equipment. Since being put in place in November the cameras have captured 11 incidents of “extremely dangerous” aerial fly-tipping leading to three people being fined £1000 each, Haringey Council said.
Plans are now being made to install more cameras following their initial success. The motion-sensitive cameras can distinguish between different kinds of movement, avoiding false triggers from birds flying while being sensitive enough to detect even a tissue thrown out of a window. The new technology was developed in Singapore and has already been proven highly effective there. Haringey Council explained that the cameras respect residents privacy as they do not point directly into people's homes and instead were pointed at prospective fly-tippers.
Haringey Council deputy leader Sarah Williams said: “Our residents deserve safe and clean estates. Littering from windows not only creates a serious nuisance but can also be extremely dangerous for others passing by. “This new technology is helping combat fly-tipping and enables us to pin-point perpetrators and ensure those who commit these offences face consequences. “This innovative approach showcases our commitment to maintaining a clean, green and safe environment for our residents, utilising advanced technology to tackle and prevent anti-social behaviour.”.
Havering Council told the Standard it has started using Beam Magic Notes to help it speed up its social care service. The AI tool listens to discussions and creates concise summaries. It can also draft follow-up emails and letters or identify referrals, saving valuable time and allowing staff to spend more time providing personal services. The council is also using Co-Pilot which can reduce the time spent on admin tasks.
