State of the art public space CCTV cameras have been installed by ourselves in seven towns across the area.
What the CCTV will provide
As well as its role in crime prevention and detection, the new CCTV system will support our services by providing insight on footfall, traffic, and movement across the towns. The system can also be used to assess conditions during severe weather events.
Once fully operational and embedded, the data will also enable ourselves to forecast event attendance, plan resources more effectively, and better understand how visitor patterns influence public transport, opening hours, and wider service delivery.
Consultation was carried out to gather public views ahead of the new system being installed, which helped inform the placement of the cameras in Duns, Eyemouth, Galashiels, Hawick, Kelso, Melrose, and Peebles.
Councillor Euan Jardine, Council Leader
“The new public space CCTV system is a flagship commitment of this administration, and I am proud to see it delivered. From the outset, we made safety, resilience, and smarter services a priority and this investment proves that we are delivering on those promises.
“It is about more than crime prevention. This modern system will support our services with real-time data, help us plan and respond more effectively, and provide lasting benefits to communities right across the Borders. It is a clear demonstration of our commitment to modernising the region and making sure the Scottish Borders remains a safe, vibrant, and welcoming place for residents and visitors alike.”
Councillor Robin Tatler, Executive Member for Public Safety and Resilience
“I am delighted to see the implementation of a new CCTV system for the Scottish Borders.
“This is a vital public safety upgrade and reflects our commitment to modernising safety infrastructure and taking advantage of technology to benefit the wider community and our services.”
The modern system allows access to video and information remotely and the new cameras will also enhance the protection of Council properties and support real-time monitoring, particularly during ongoing incidents.
Chief Inspector Stuart Fletcher, Local Area Commander for the Scottish Borders
CCTV footage can play a vital role in detecting crime and helping to identify or eliminate suspects. It can also be a major deterrent to potential offenders.
“If you know you are being filmed, you are less likely to commit a crime. Footage can also be sued to support missing person inquiries. We will use all available technology to ensure our communities are safe.”
More details
Initial testing of the system has been completed, with some outstanding work required before the system becomes fully operational across all seven towns.
Further information on the public space CCTV system can be accessed on our webpages. Any enquiries should be directed to cctv@scotborders.gov.uk.