Mr
Littlemore outlined that steps could be taken to improve the public
realm CCTV provision. As the Town Hall
had previously flooded, and recording equipment had been damaged,
it was suggested that the equipment be relocated to Maidstone
House. It was stated that the proposed
improvements ensured that better quality cameras and recording
equipment were available to be used by Maidstone Borough
Council.
The Committee commented
that:
·
Preventative measures to reduce crime needed to be
undertaken alongside the CCTV upgrade.
·
CCTV had recently been used effectively to identify
suspected criminals.
·
The new system was designed to allow external
partners to use the system, should this functionality be
required.
In response to questions from the
Committee, Mr Littlemore stated that:
·
The £110,000 cost was an estimate provided by
a consultant.
·
Conversations with partners such as Kent Police
demonstrated that the public realm CCTV was
considered to be a valuable asset.
·
The current equipment was to be completely
replaced. This resulted in reduced
operating costs, but also ensured that camera footage quality was
improved.
RESOLVED: That:
1.
The public realm CCTV cameras be
upgraded.
2.
The CCTV recording equipment be relocated from the
Town Hall to Maidstone House.
3.
Policy and Resources Committee be recommended to
identify £110,000 to enable the upgrade and relocation of
CCTV.
Voting: For – 8
Against – 1
Abstentions – 0