New cameras to tackle antisocial behaviour and flytipping

Councillors have agreed to replace 56 old CCTV cameras in and around town centres and to also buy additional wireless status cameras that can be moved to antisocial behaviour and flytipping hotspots.

Approved spending

At the full Council meeting on Tuesday councillors approved indicative spending of £471,860 in this financial year (2021/22) and a further £97,622 annually from 2022.

Cameras need replaced

Councillors heard of the 56 cameras in main streets in Dalkeith, Penicuik, Bonnyrigg, Danderhall, Loanhead Mayfield, Gorebridge, Roslin, Newtongrange and Sheriffhall Park and Ride, 16 of them did not work and the remainder were coming to the end of their lifespan.

Signs in place

All council active cameras are identifiable and have signs indicating who is operating them and how they can be contacted. At present, once a fault develops and they no longer work, a sign is put up to say the camera is no longer active.

Cameras monitored

Police Scotland monitor the cameras.

Need to feel safe

Midlothian Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for community safety, Councillor Stephen Curran said: “Everyone has the right to feel safe and protected within their communities and replacing these cameras will help tackle and prevent crime.

Rapidly deployed

“I know the public will also be pleased to hear we’ll have cameras that can be rapidly deployed and trained on areas known for antisocial behaviour and flytipping, two issues which can have a profoundly negative impact on local people’s quality of life.”

Councillors also agreed officers should bring a further paper back to the full Council outlining if other areas would benefit from CCTV cameras.