Published Friday, 20th September 2024

The Council’s Executive has agreed proposals to upgrade CCTV cameras in 22 town centre locations and to remain open to the possibility that further locations are identified as details are finalised.

These new cameras will be in addition to the 39 new cameras installed in the council’s multi-storey carparks and Lady Neville, Memorial and Priory Parks last year, bringing the total number of upgraded cameras to 61.

The proposals are a result of work by the Council to review its public realm CCTV system before cameras that were earmarked for decommissioning in 2020 were removed. A public petition received in January 2024 and research work undertaken by the Safer Redhill partnership has also shown that CCTV cameras can make people feel safer.

Cllr Richard Biggs, Council Leader: “We want people to be safe and feel safer and we recognise that CCTV can play a part in this.

“The proposal is for 22 new and upgraded cameras in town centre locations where they are most likely to be needed. These will be in addition to the 39 new cameras that were installed in the Council’s multi-storey carparks and Lady Neville, Memorial and Priory parks last year, bringing the total number of our upgraded CCTV cameras to 61.

“Council officers have worked with the police to review the most recent data showing where CCTV images are most likely to be requested and where there is less alternative coverage from privately-owned cameras such as mobile phones and dash cams. Importantly, these recommended locations will also make sure we comply with relevant data protection legislation and guidance.

“The new cameras, like the ones installed last year, would record high quality images that can be available to the Police and other parties on request to support evidence gathering and prosecution. The evidence does not justify that live monitoring is reinstated and the Police have no plans to reopen their CCTV control room.”

The proposals also recommend the Council continues with the decommissioning of the remaining out-of-date cameras which are rarely used and do not meet the ‘pressing needs’ test required by the Surveillance Camera Code of Practice. These proposals will now be considered by the Full Council at a meeting on Tuesday 24 September 2024.