Upgraded CCTV system being rolled out across Buckinghamshire
Buckinghamshire Council is pleased to announce a major upgrade in its Community Safety CCTV system, with the first new cameras now live.
It’s part of a £868,000 investment that introduces newer technologies and fully modernises the system.
Installation of the new cameras is underway with the first new cameras being positioned in High Wycombe – installation will then continue to roll out to other parts of the county.
As part of the upgrade, older analogue cameras are being replaced with newer digital models. Many of the new cameras have 360 degree coverage, resulting in improved coverage and clearer image quality. The majority of CCTV cameras are placed in Town Centre locations; where they are located is based on crime statistics, population density and night-time activity. The council cannot disclose precise locations of the cameras for security reasons and to protect the integrity of the system, but the network ensures good coverage of CCTV, particularly in areas that have seen higher rates of crime and anti-social behaviour. CCTV footage is monitored from the council’s dedicated control room by specialist operators.
CCTV cameras are used by the council as an important tool to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour and promote community safety and reassurance. While CCTV cannot stop crime, it is an important way to deter criminal and anti-social activity and assists in solving crimes and providing evidence.
Arif Hussain is Buckinghamshire Council's Cabinet Member for Communities. He said:
“This is a clear priority for the council which is why we’ve invested nearly £900,000 to upgrade our cameras and make use of the latest technology. We know the important role CCTV plays in helping to help people feel safer in their neighbourhoods and in our town centres. It’s important to remember that while crime rates remain relatively low in Buckinghamshire and it is a safe place to live, CCTV is still a useful tool in crime prevention, community safety and where crimes and anti-social behaviour do occur, in investigating these incidents.
CCTV is just one of our community safety initiatives that keeps crime rates low in Buckinghamshire and helps our residents to feel safe; our Community Safety team works closely with the police, partners and local communities to maintain safety across the county.”
