By publicizing the intent of incorporating closed circuit television cameras (CCTVs) in the Colebrook Road area, those involved in illegal activity are given an open warning.
Although the public has a right to know about where their tax dollars are being spent, it doesn’t make sense to publicize where they would be put up.
The whole idea to let the public know that their actions are being watched and recorded as a way to deter crime has been proven in studies by UK and American governments to not have made a significant impact on the reduction of crime.
It has also been shown that only a small percentage of crimes can even be solved through the use of CCTVs. The implementation of these cameras is only going to move illegal activity from this location to another.
A more positive approach would be to include the community. With the land no longer being isolated, it would no longer be a desirable location for illegal activity.
Charandeep Sandhu
Surrey