Wiltshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner has stressed the importance of CCTV in crime prevention, as new cameras are installed across parts of the county.
Philip Wilkinson said the cameras play a vital role in supporting the force – by providing real-time monitoring, gathering evidence and deterring criminal behaviour.
Recent figures from Swindon show more than 1,000 incidents reported in the Central area alone so far this year, with other neighbourhoods including Old Town, Mannington and Western, and Walcot and Parks North.
They have also been recording increases in anti-social behaviour, theft and drug-related offences.
Swindon Borough Council operates 1,100 cameras from its control room, with trained operators assisting police to respond quickly to incidents and capture key evidence.
Footage has been used to identify suspects, safeguard vulnerable people. In some cases, they can help prevent crimes before they happen.
Additional cameras are now being installed in anti-social behaviour hot spot areas in Trowbridge, including the Town Park sports courts and Biss Meadows Country Park.
Mr Wilkinson recently visited the CCTV suite in Warminster, where 49 cameras cover the town, neighbouring Westbury and the West Wilts Trading Estate, and was impressed with what he saw.
“Everyone deserves to feel safe where they live, work, and visit. CCTV is one of the most effective tools we have to support that goal,” he said.
“I was hugely impressed with the setup in Warminster and how closely they work with their local neighbourhood policing team to provide intelligence and evidence, which has been used to secure significant convictions in the town.
“CCTV doesn’t work in isolation; it’s part of a broader strategy that includes neighbourhood policing, community engagement, and strong local partnerships.
“Together, these efforts help create environments where people feel secure and supported.”
He added: “Our investment in CCTV is an investment in making streets safer. It’s about giving our communities peace of mind and ensuring our officers have the resources they need to keep people safe.”
