If the public intend to install a private CCTV camera that views the public realm to they need to apply to the council?
As a private individual a person can have cctv cameras in/on his premises pointing at whatever he chooses. The Data Protection Act does not apply to individuals. That individual will only attract the attention of the police if he causes a disturbance by his use of cctv (a breach of the peace). If that individual creates a nuisance (say by harassing his neighbours by compromising their privacy in their own home) they might seek a civil action against him for damages, or seek an injunction against him to cease the nuisance.
