There could now be as many as 5.9 million Cctv cameras in the UK, according to the British Security Industry Authority, with numbers only expected to grow in the coming years. This is equivalent to one CCTV camera for every 11 people in the UK! While the figure is only an estimate and more conservative estimates place the number of CCTV cameras at 4.9 million, and more conservative estimates at only 1.85 million cameras, (which is equivalent to roughly 2.4 cameras for every 100 people), the figures show that in spite of privacy concerns from some corners, the benefits, both perceieved and provable, of CCTV systems continue to ensure the industry’s growth.

While some civil liberties and privacy campaigners have bemoaned the growing prevalence of CCTV cameras in both public and private spaces, many individuals and businesses value their help in crime deterrence and solving crimes. For example, in 2009, some 95 percent of Scotland Yard murder cases were solved with the assistance of CCTV systems.

While the debate about the trade-offs between public safety vs the right to privacy will continue to be fought, there is little doubt that CCTV remains a growth industry for both manufacturers and installers alike.

Click to view our range of CCTV supplies and why not leave us a comment with your thoughts on the growing prevalence of CCTV. Do you think it helps fight crime, or do you think the privacy and civil liberties concerns outweight the social gains?