Newport may not get new CCTV system for at least 10 years
Newport's ageing CCTV system might not be replaced for another 10 years, despite a problem that meant it failed to capture a bank robbery.
The town's current system is still functional, but councillors have been told that it might need to be upgraded in the near future, costing about £50,000.
Newport Town Council clerk Lee Jakeman admitted that the camera directly opposite The Britannia failed to capture the moment a man walked into the High Street bank before making off with thousands of pounds a fortnight ago.
Despite CCTV images from inside the bank and from outside The Barley pub, the robber today remains at large.
Mr Jakeman said he was reluctant to go into detail which could expose weaknesses of the system.
There are currently cameras dotted around the town centre in High Street, St Mary's Street, The Square, Stafford Street and Stafford Street car park.
Members of the council's community safety committee had recommended saving for new CCTV cameras over a three year period.
But at a meeting on Wednesday night, councillors said that would be too much of a burden on residents and instead decided to set aside £5,000 each year towards new equipment.
Extra cash could be saved as and when available to bring the project forward, councillors said.
