Swale council wants to axe 21 of the borough’s 84 closed-circuit security cameras to save money.

Cabinet members decided earlier today to put the decision out to consultation.

In a briefing paper to members, officer Stephanie Curtis recommended a two-month consultation on decommissioning cameras, which have recorded less than 22 criminal events over the past year.

The cost to take each camera down is between £450 to £700 but it is estimated it would save at least £500 a year on renting the fibre optic line which links it to the Rochester control room.

The documents do not identify which cameras are at risk.

Surveillance cameras must undergo regular reviews to ensure their use remains justified.

The consultation process will be undertaken with ward councillors, parish councils, Police Community Support Officers, SwaleSafe and affected businesses and residents.