Ceredigion County Council website

The consultation, which runs until 14 January 2026, seeks feedback on the draft Drone Policy, as public services explore new tools to tackle anti-social behaviour and improve emergency response.

Drone technology can help monitor hotspot areas, support inspections, gather evidence safely, and improve the efficiency of local services. At the same time, its use raises important questions about privacy, data handling and public accountability.

The consultation asks residents how, when and where drones should be deployed under the draft policy, and what safeguards should be in place to ensure responsible use.

Councillor Matthew Vaux, Cabinet Member for Partnerships, Housing, Legal and Governance and Public Protection said: “Drones can be a valuable tool in improving public safety and supporting enforcement, but we understand that transparency, trust and safeguards for the public are essential. This consultation is specifically about the draft policy and gives you the opportunity to shape its contents before any final decisions are made. There are also potential cost and efficiency benefits in other areas, such as surveying and structural inspections.”

Residents are invited to share their views on:

• When and where drones should be deployed
• How data collected by drones should be stored and used
• What safeguards should be in place to protect privacy

Feedback gathered will help shape the final policy and ensure that any introduction of drones is proportionate, necessary and transparent.

We want to work with our communities to design responsible and ethical approaches from the outset. Your views will directly influence how this technology is used locally.

How to take part:

• Complete the online survey here.
• You can also send an e-mail with your views to partnerships@ceredigion.gov.uk
• Paper feedback forms are also available at local libraries and Council reception areas

03/12/2025