Closed Circuit Television (CCTV)

Fareham Borough Council operates a CCTV control centre jointly with Gosport Borough Council which is monitored 24 hours per day, seven days a week. The running costs are shared between the two Councils with occasional financial contributions from the Fareham Community Safety Partnership for specific items.

CCTV Cameras

The need for CCTV cameras is continually being assessed by the Police, Fareham Borough Council and the Fareham Community Safety Partnership, with more cameras being installed as and when necessary for the benefit of the residents and to assist the Police in preventing and reducing crime. There are currently 37 CCTV cameras in operation within the Borough of Fareham linked into a main control centre with 'stand alone' systems installed at some community centres across the Borough. 

A major aim is for the cameras to act as a deterrent to crime and anti-social behaviour, thus reducing the fear of crime. The scheme operates in conjunction with the Police, providing evidence for many prosecutions. If CCTV operators notice an incident they can advise the police and direct them where to go. The cameras are also used to monitor traffic through the ROMANSE (Road Management System for Europe)  system in partnership with Hampshire County Council.

Hot Spots

CCTV cameras are often located in 'Hot Spots', areas that due to the level of reported crime warrant additional surveillance support to both detect crime and reduce the fear of crime. 

Confidentiality

The camera movements are strictly controlled and are limited by the Human Rights and Data Protection Acts. The setting up of the equipment prevents staff in the control centre from invading the privacy of residents in their own homes.

Fareham Borough Council has copyright and ownership of the recordings with access strictly controlled. For example, if someone bumps a car and the owner wanted to see if it was recorded by the CCTV camera they would need to either contact the police dealing with the matter or their solicitor. There will be a fee for a copy tape if this is provided.

Request for more cameras

From time to time the Council receives requests for additional cameras. The installation of the current cameras in the Borough was funded by the Home Office. Any future cameras will be installed in collaboration with the Police and the Fareham Community Safety Partnership.

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