Worthing Borough Council is set to invest in new CCTV technology as part of efforts to improve community safety across the town centre and seafront.
The council plans to spend up to £70,000 on upgrading its existing CCTV network, using money from the Community Infrastructure Levy. The levy is collected from developers and ringfenced for infrastructure projects that support local communities.
As part of the investment, 16 existing CCTV cameras will be replaced with the latest technology. The new units will be more robust and better suited to Worthing’s coastal environment, where salt air and harsh weather can affect equipment. They will also offer improved coverage, with 360-degree recording capabilities designed to monitor larger areas more effectively.
In addition to the upgraded fixed cameras, the council will also invest in a portable CCTV unit. This mobile camera can be deployed anywhere in the borough to respond to emerging issues such as fly-tipping, antisocial behaviour or other problem hotspots identified by local agencies.
Footage from Worthing’s CCTV network is used exclusively by Sussex Police to support investigations and enforcement activity. The council says the investment will help deter crime and antisocial behaviour, while also improving safety for residents, businesses and visitors.
Two new CCTV cameras were already installed near Worthing railway station last year as part of the Railway Approach improvement works. The latest upgrade builds on that work and forms part of a wider approach to community safety in the borough.
Council leaders say the improved CCTV system will provide greater flexibility and resilience, allowing resources to be targeted where they are needed most and ensuring the town’s surveillance infrastructure is fit for the future.
Work replacing the CCTV units is expected to start in early 2026. The funding comes from the CIL 'other agencies' pot, which is reserved for infrastructure projects in collaboration with organisations like the police.
Councillor Rita Garner, Worthing's deputy leader and cabinet member for regeneration, said:
“We want to ensure that our town centre and seafront remain safe and attractive places to visit, and that businesses feel supported.
“This investment in new CCTV equipment is part of our ongoing work to improve the look and feel of the area, which also includes widespread repairs and repainting of benches, railings and bins, the refurbishment of some seafront shelters, as well as a permanent fix for the pier next year.”
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