More Live CCTV Access for Avon and Somerset Police

A £200,000 upgrade will give police chiefs live access to more than 1,000 CCTV cameras across Avon and Somerset.

16:20 15 January 2021

Avon and Somerset police and crime commissioner Sue Mountstevens has approved proposals to upgrade the police force's video management system giving them live access to more than 1,000 cameras across the area. The initiative is hoped to cut response times and improve the council's ability to protect the public as well as its staff and officers. 

 

The decision notice says: “It the upgrade not only repairs the present lack of connectivity – it future proofs the ability to connect to other partners who are upgrading and on-boarding with CCTV, such as the new Bristol Arena and Ashton Gate. 

 

“It allows silver commanders to have the most available 360-degree view of what is happening on the ground and ensures they are able to be based alongside their command team within the control room. 

 

“It is not just about the dynamic incidents, it is also about the planning. Having CCTV allows Avon and Somerset Police planning silvers to resource appropriately, knowing on the day they have good quality CCTV to support decision making. 

 

“Dangers that officers and staff face policing in the UK are increasing and importantly CCTV will help to ensure Avon and Somerset Police officer and staff safety.”