Residents in Teddington are benefiting from Richmond Council's ongoing investment in the CCTV service – helping to prevent crime, ensuring police can act fast and protect local communities.

The system's vital role was clear just earlier this month when CCTV operators spotted a bin fire near Richmond Green. The control room tracked the suspects' movements in real time, allowing officers to respond swiftly, detain those involved, and stop the fire spreading.

Leader of Richmond Council, Councillor Gareth Roberts, said: "This incident shows just how effective our CCTV network is in keeping people safe. By working hand in hand with the police, we are protecting residents, property and businesses, and stopping crime before it escalates.

"This is just one example of how the borough's CCTV service is making a real difference to community safety."

Richmond upon Thames has long been ranked the safest borough in London, thanks in part to the Council's commitment to community safety and investment in public protection measures.

Over the past five years, the Council has upgraded or installed nearly 150 high-quality public safety cameras across town centres, parks, and residential areas.

All record 24/7 and are overseen by dedicated staff in the Council's Joint Control Centre, which also supports the borough's wider Community Safety Partnership – bringing together the Council, police, and other organisations to prevent and reduce crime.

Councillor Roberts added: "The Joint Control Centre is an important part of our response to crime and antisocial behaviour, and our investment in this service is clearly paying off."

The focus on CCTV is being echoed across the capital, with 300 new and upgraded cameras installed across London last year as part of a city-wide programme to boost safety. 

Neighbourhood Superintendent for Richmond Borough, Chris Scammell, said: "Richmond Police continue to demonstrate the strength of their partnership with the local authority, as a recent incident highlights the effectiveness of joint efforts in tackling criminal and anti-social behaviour. 

"Through the strategic use of CCTV, officers were able to swiftly identify individuals involved, showcasing the value of close collaboration in keeping our communities safe," he said.

Richmond Council says it is continuing to work closely with the Metropolitan Police, local businesses, and residents to ensure the borough remains the safest in London.

Find out more about the Richmond Community Safety Partnership here.