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Canterbury CCTV Cameras
Canterbury is one of the most watched UK cities with over 336 cameras.
15:52 24 April 2018
A recent study released by RS Components, which draws on information from anti-surveillance group Big Brother Watch and the Office for National Statistics, reveals that Canterbury has a total of 336 cameras or one for every 483 of its residents.
Although members of the public have raised concerns for being comprehensively monitored, former policeman and Conservative councillor Ashley Clark argues that CCTV cameras are extremely useful.
“CCTV keeps citizens safe,” he said.
“It eliminates all doubt. Having dealt with a number of offences over the years, you get a variety of witnesses saying conflicting things but camera footage removes all of that doubt and the truth comes out.”
However, young Labour support group member Charlie Mower, 19, said that the number of CCTV in town is simply “worrying.”
He explained: “I’ve always thought too much CCTV promotes a neoconservative surveillance culture, which can lead to an unaccountable police state.
“That, in turn, creates an atmosphere of suspicion and fear as of a means of control.”
With more than 300 CCTV cameras, Canterbury ranks behind Bristol, Birmingham, Stoke, Chelmsford and Liverpool on the list of most monitored cities.