Up to 30 new CCTV cameras could be installed across Edinburgh this year as part of the Council's ongoing drive to combat crime, tackle antisocial behaviour and make the city a safe and pleasant place for its residents and visitors.

The proposals, to be considered by the Council's Executive next week, are designed to build on the success of the extensive network of public space CCTV cameras already monitored by the City of Edinburgh Council.

During 2005/06, the CCTV Central Monitoring Facility (CMF) recorded more than 12,000 incidents captured on CCTV cameras citywide. Of these, 1,215 resulted in arrests and 1,696 in warnings by Lothian and Borders Police.

In addition, a total of 1,488 public safety incidents were picked up by the cameras, and 26 missing persons were traced through CCTV footage.

One hundred and ten public space cameras are monitored by the Council through the CCTV CMF, while its Multi-storey Concierge Service monitors a further 50 public space cameras.

Capital funding of £1 million has already been allocated to the CCTV unit in capital funding for 2006/07.

The use of CCTV footage is regarded as a valuable tool in the fight against crime and antisocial behaviour. It is part of a range of community safety initiatives, such as community police officers, anti-graffiti squads and the Night-time Noise Team.

This year's money will be used in a number of ways. Older camera systems need to be upgraded and this work has already started in areas such as Craigmillar and will be rolled out to Wester Hailes, South Edinburgh, Muirhouse and Pilton where systems were originally installed some years ago. Other cameras will be put in where there are particular problems, closely linked to work by police and others to tackle the issues.

In addition, seven new rapid response portable CCTV units will be purchased in order to meet demand following the success of the existing four units.

Councillor Sheila Gilmore, Executive Member for Community Safety and Housing, said: "Cameras help a lot to identify those responsible for crime and anti-social behaviour. We know that incidents drop when cameras are put in because those involved realise they are going to be seen. Our operators have very close links with the police and can use the cameras to help direct the police to where they are needed. Cameras assist the work of people on the ground, not just the police but our warden services as well. This aditional funding will help to keep Edinburgh's citizens safe."