UK under surveillance by 'spy in the sky' as hundreds of drones deployed nationwide

Local authorities across the United Kingdom have significantly increased their deployment of drones, raising worries about potential government surveillance from above. According to data from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), over 60 councils now employ certified drone operators, while at least twelve more are exploring similar initiatives. Experts note that the actual number of publicly funded drone operators may be higher, as the CAA only tracks pilots officially registered through their employers.

Big Brother Watch, a UK civil liberties organization, has criticized this trend, warning that local governments are moving toward "spies in the sky" strategies in a country already heavily monitored with CCTV. Jake Hurfurt, head of research and investigations at the group, emphasized that drones can serve useful purposes, such as flood monitoring or land surveys, but must not become instruments for unchecked observation. "There may be a role for drones in helping councils monitor flooding or conduct land surveys, but local authorities must not use the technology as spies in the sky," Hurfurt stated. He added that Britain already has extensive street-level surveillance, and adding airborne cameras could further intrude on citizens' privacy.

Hurfurt also criticized London's Metropolitan Police for using drones as first responders without clear policies on when, how, or why drones should be deployed. He warned that, without strong safeguards, drones risk functioning as airborne CCTV cameras or tools to monitor lawful protests. "The Metropolitan Police must be transparent about thresholds for drone use and ensure a balance between public rights and operational benefits," he said.

Despite these concerns, some councils are actively expanding their drone programs. Hammersmith and Fulham Council plans to incorporate drones into its 70-member enforcement team, which issued over 2,200 fines last year. The council claims drones will assist in addressing antisocial behavior, compensate for limited police resources, and work alongside existing CCTV systems equipped with facial recognition. Sunderland currently operates the largest council drone fleet, featuring 13 drones and multiple trained operators. These drones are used for crime prevention, environmental rule enforcement, and monitoring public events.

Other councils, including North West Leicestershire, Stockton-on-Tees, Newcastle, North Norfolk, and Thurrock, reportedly use drones for applications ranging from planning oversight to coastal monitoring, according to GB News.

Author: Sophia Brooks