Major CCTV investment for Stratford-on-Avon District

Stratford-on-Avon District Council is investing £796,000 in a major CCTV upgrade for the District, the first major CCTV technology investment since 2008.

The CCTV Scheme upgrade includes:

• Upgrade of the CCTV Control Room and equipment
• Implementation of a new CCTV operating system
• Replacing all 87 existing analogue cameras for digital cameras - across 8 towns in the District
• Upgrading BT fibres lines to transmit digital images from the cameras to the CCTV Control Room
• Provision for up to six new cameras at identified strategic locations across the District (subject to necessity test, impact assessment and planning permission)

The first phase of upgrading the CCTV Control Room is now complete. The next phase will see the replacement of the outdated analogue cameras with new digital cameras and upgraded fibre transmission offering enhanced digital picture quality and data storage.

Cllr Sarah Whalley-Hoggins, Community Portfolio says: "The upgrade of our district-wide CCTV system will play a key role in preventing and detecting crime and disorder and keeping people safe in our town centres. People need to feel safe and comfortable to shop and enjoy their leisure time and to go about their daily lives.

"We know from speaking to our residents that CCTV is highly valued because of the integral part it has in preventing and detecting crime and disorder. The upgrade now reflects the high calibre personnel that work tirelessly to keep the streets of Stratford-on-Avon District safe."

Superintendent Daf Goddard from Warwickshire Police said: "The use of CCTV is integral for police and partners, in order to prevent and deter crime, and for its use in investigating offences. We're really pleased to see this upgrade of CCTV within the Stratford district, and hope it will continue to help keep the district a safe place to live, work and visit."

CCTV operates 24/7 in Alcester, Bidford, Henley, Shipston, Southam, Stratford, Studley and Wellesbourne. CCTV have direct radio communication with Warwickshire Police and CCTV images can be transmitted directly to them. Shops and pubs in Stratford, with BardWatch retail radios also have direct radio communication with CCTV.

The District Council's CCTV scheme is managed in accordance with BS7958 (CCTV Management & operation) and the Surveillance Camera Commissioner Code of Practice. The Council is accredited to both standards and is assessed annually.