Perth residents have backed an ambitious overhaul of CCTV in the city centre.
Council bosses are reviewing security cameras in the Fair City which they say are outdated and becoming more difficult and expensive to maintain.
The local authority has now secured EU funding to upgrade the 20-year-old system and improve the way footage is monitored and recorded.
In October, Perth and Kinross Council launched a public consultation on the current CCTV set-up and plans for the future.
The results of the questionnaire show overwhelming support for “clearly visible” cameras.
Of the 287 who responded, 77% said cameras in the city centre would make them feel safer.
Asked if they were concerned that cameras could affect their privacy, 87% said no.
A total of 96% agreed that CCTV reduced crime and increased public safety, while 98% said it helped to detect and investigate crime.
The majority – 78% – said they trusted the police and council to “use CCTV only where necessary and in an appropriate manner”.
The council said that only fully trained and vetted staff would continue to have access to CCTV footage.
Police Scotland will monitor images on a 24/7 basis, while council staff will have access to the system to crack down on public nuisance offences like graffiti and fly-tipping. The updated cameras can also be used to help with traffic management.
In response to public concerns, a council spokesman said: “The use of the system has to be justifiable and proportionate.
“It is not the intention to utilise the system to fine motorists for poor or illegal driving acts, though dangerous driving and persistent offending may be targeted.
“Footage can be reviewed to support the investigation of crime and/or antisocial behaviour.”
It also emerged that the council has plans in place to install CCTV in other parts of the city such as along the Ladeside path, the South Inch tunnels and Rae Place.
CCTV at the bus station and the Broxden park and ride facility could also be upgraded.
Councillor Bob Brawn, housing and communities convener, said: “CCTV is a key tool to support the safety of the public and wider community by deterring and preventing anti-social behaviour and crime.
“It also plays a very valuable role in assisting Police Scotland in the investigation and detection of crimes.”
More details of the new system are expected to be released in the new year.
