Talking CCTV tested
Talking CCTV cameras are to be trialled in 20 locations across the country. It is hoped that the cameras will help curb anti-social behaviour that often occurs on the street.
Talking CCTV cameras are to be trialled in 20 locations across the country. It is hoped that the cameras will help curb anti-social behaviour that often occurs on the street.
The talking cameras are already in use in Middlesbrough. Control room staff that identify any behaviour they think is inappropriate can use the cameras built-in loudspeaker to talk directly to the offender. The Home Office has pledged £500,000 to fund the expansion of the system.
Home Secretary John Reid commented that the cameras were aimed at a small minority who litter our streets, vandalise our communities and damage our property.
The talking cameras will be installed in Southwark, Barking and Dagenham, in London, Reading, Harlow, Norwich, Ipswich, Plymouth, Gloucester, Derby, Northampton, Mansfield, Nottingham, Coventry, Sandwell, Wirral, Blackpool, Salford, South Tyneside and Darlington.