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The council has more than 70 cameras across the city and trials of digital “internet protocol” systems, which use wireless services such as 3G and could offer cheaper alternatives in certain locations, are now under way.
It also plans to switch from analogue to digital fibre-optic lines next year to save money, but the report by the council’s transport systems manager, Darren Capes, and transport systems technician Christian Wood says that while CCTV systems can be included within major road schemes, organisations wanting to see them elsewhere need to find the funding first.
“Due to the system’s success in dealing with crime and disorder, and acting as a tool for managing the city’s transport network, there is constant pressure to expand the system,” said the officers.
“While in principle there is no problem with this, there are issues around staffing levels and ongoing revenue commitment which need to be addressed. Where new cameras are required for non-highway-related purposes, it falls onto the party promoting their provision to provide funding.
“The issue which is less well understood by parties promoting the expansion of CCTV coverage is the need to provide ongoing revenue support for each camera. Fixed line fibre-optic cameras require between £2,000 and £5,000 per annum to cover costs.”
The executive has been recommended to approve a formal policy for the CCTV system, which will require organisations seeking more cameras to outline how they will pay for them.
The Press
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