As part of a new project, we'll be working with a contractor to capture traffic-free routes on the National Cycle Network in Cymru. Below, we've put together an FAQ to help explain how we're going to carry this out.
Two women cycling on a wooded traffic-free route. Credit: Andy McCandlish/Walk Wheel Cycle Trust
Why are you filming on the National Cycle Network?
We’re capturing updated, high-quality imagery of the National Cycle Network in Cymru to help walkers, cyclists, wheelchair users, and local communities better understand route conditions.
The images will appear on open mapping platforms Google Streetview and Mapillary, which support navigation, accessibility and route planning.
What will the images be used for?
The imagery helps:
Improve digital maps and navigation tools
Provide up-to-date visual information for route users
Contribute to open-data mapping projects that benefit the public
Are we allowed to film people in public?
Yes, filming in public spaces is permitted.
How do you protect people’s privacy?
Any incidental capture of people or vehicle number plates is automatically blurred by the hosting platforms before being published, helping to ensure individuals cannot be identified.
If someone believes an image still identifies them, they can request further blurring or removal.
Both web platforms provide tools for reporting or requesting removal of images, if needed:
https://support.google.com/answer/3093484#report_issue
Will you record audio?
No, only still images or video frames are captured – no sound is recorded.
Can I ask for an image of me to be removed?
Yes. Both Google Streetview and Mapillary allow users to request additional blurring or removal of specific images.
You can use the platform’s reporting tools to do this.
Are you working with local authorities?
Local authorities are not involved in the filming, but Walk Wheel Cycle Trust have informed all local authorities that the filming is taking place over the summer and early autumn.
Do you film on private land?
Generally not, but some sections of the Network may run across private land where the landowner has given permission or legal agreements for access exist.
How often will you be filming?
Filming is weather-dependent and as such may be subject to short notice changes.
Who can I contact with concerns?
You can contact us directly using the details on this website.
You can also request blurring or removal directly through the hosting platform’s reporting tools.
Privacy Notice
Walk Wheel Cycle Trust are filming off-road routes across Wales in order to map these onto Google Streetview and Mapillary.
Any incidental filming of people or vehicles will be processed under legitimate interests before it is anonymised.