Council CCTV Offers Limited Public Protection
Following on from a recent news item by SS Systems on council CCTV systems, another local authority has been in the news regarding the effectiveness of closed circuit television systems. Eastleigh Council has recently reviewed its aging CCTV system amid cost and effectiveness concerns. Eastleigh Borough Council’s public realm Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) system was viewed to be no longer meeting modern standards, offering “limited public protection” and being unsustainable to operate, according to a report presented to local authority councillors. The report concluded that the current system requires decommissioning due to its outdated technology and high operating costs.
Current Challenges
The council’s ageing analogue CCTV infrastructure, dating back to the early 2000s, is increasingly ineffective. The report acknowledged that some elements of the system no longer function, creating an unrealistic perception of the council’s public safety services. To address these issues, the council identified the need for a 24-hour control room function to monitor and manage systems such as the recently installed Pay-on-Foot parking at Itchen Valley Country Park. Additionally, the council operates standalone CCTV systems across its properties that are not connected to the control room, further complicating management.
Proposed Solutions
Rather than discontinuing public realm CCTV entirely, the report recommended implementing a smaller, more targeted network. This would involve installing up to 15 new cameras in key areas. Funding options could include collaboration with the Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), leveraging initiatives like the Home Office Safer Streets Fund, which supports measures such as CCTV and improved street lighting to combat violence against women and girls.
The council is also exploring outsourcing CCTV monitoring to other councils and integrating standalone building cameras into the new control room to achieve savings. The estimated cost for a revamped system, including a new control room and management software, is up to £200,000.
Public Perception & Demand
A recent survey highlighted significant public concern about crime and anti-social behaviour in Eastleigh town centre. While acknowledging these concerns, respondents expressed strong support for maintaining or upgrading CCTV in public spaces, with many advocating for expanded coverage in parks, playgrounds, and areas like Chandlers Ford and Hedge End. One respondent, reflecting safety concerns common among survey participants, stated: “I naturally worry in car parks and parks most.”
Broader Implications
As the council considers its approach to modernising CCTV systems, the outsourcing of monitoring and funding remains critical. Businesses are also encouraged to evaluate their own CCTV infrastructure to protect employees, customers, and assets, while supporting crime prevention and prosecution efforts. This transition comes as Eastleigh, like many councils, grapples with balancing public safety needs against financial constraints in the upcoming fiscal year. SS Systems can offer a complete site survey as part of our consultation process for your retail premises or commercial business location. We are also specialists in multisite locations where logistics and geographic aspects are a factor for consideration.
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