Swale’s CCTV Control Centre Expands, Becomes National Safety Hub to Combat Crime

The local authority has announced that Swale Borough Council’s CCTV control centre is expanding to become a national safety hub. This centre provides year-round monitoring of Swale’s public space CCTV cameras and collaborates closely with Kent Police to address crime and maintain resident safety. Swale has now formed partnerships with Gravesham Borough Council and Folkestone Town Council to monitor their Public Space CCTV cameras. The control centre indicated it could offer these councils cost-saving solutions while guaranteeing active surveillance of their public space CCTV. Beyond public space CCTV cameras, the control centre also provides monitoring services for local parish councils, as well as for several commercial cameras under private contractual agreements. The scheme currently includes more than 70 businesses, utilizing a network of CCTV and instant communication to address thefts and other forms of anti-social behaviour. The council also indicated it is investigating the monitoring of CCTV networks in other areas, expanding the overall camera network, and enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of tracking criminals’ movements across council boundaries. Councillor Richard Palmer commented: “We have assisted the police numerous times to bring people to justice, and help business stay safe, which is a testament to how capable and effective our control centre is. “Growing the network of CCTV control centre monitors not only funds improvements to our service, but also allows us to help Kent Police monitor, track and catch the people harming our community – even if they leave Swale.”