New Delhi: A Birmingham City fan attending her team’s EFL Trophy clash at Swindon Town’s County Ground was left feeling “violated” after spotting a CCTV camera above the women’s toilets in the away stand. The discovery, made on Tuesday night, quickly sparked a heated online debate about privacy and safety at football grounds.
The supporter took to social media platform X, expressing her shock: “Sat on the toilet at Swindon away and notice a CCTV camera right above me.” Her post, which garnered two million views, highlighted a growing concern among fans about surveillance in sensitive areas. Swindon Town responded, assuring that the camera utilised motion blur technology to ensure no visibility into the toilets.
CCTV controversy: Privacy or safety measure?
Sat on the toilet at Swindon away and notice a CCTV camera right above me 😬 pic.twitter.com/Z4wA7fkDus
— Alexandra ❤️ (@alexpitt_1) January 14, 2025
The camera, positioned in the away section of the Arkell’s Stand, was explained by Swindon Town as part of a broader safety measure. A club statement outlined its purpose: monitoring the concourse, away kiosk, segregation areas, and emergency exits. They emphasised that the digital blur ensured no footage of the toilets could be accessed.
Despite this reassurance, the fan expressed her unease in an interview, stating: “At first, I thought it was odd, but then I felt exposed and violated. Having a camera positioned over the women’s toilets is simply not right.” She also raised concerns about the potential misuse of footage, questioning what might happen if the blur technology failed or was tampered with.
Swindon Town addressed the backlash, explaining that their CCTV system is operated by licensed security personnel under strict supervision. They cited compliance with data protection laws but acknowledged previous concerns raised during an AFC Wimbledon match last season. As a result, the club had increased CCTV signage in the away end.
In response to the latest complaints, Swindon Town has pledged to explore additional measures to reassure fans. However, the incident has reignited discussions about balancing safety and privacy in football stadiums.
A Birmingham fan said she felt “violated” after spotting a CCTV camera above women’s toilets at Swindon Town’s County Ground. The club claimed motion blur ensured privacy, but concerns remain. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
