Preparatory works have commenced to upgrade the CCTV surveillance network in Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Centre.
It is the first project to be funded through the Pride in Place Programme (PiPP).
The decision follows extensive community engagement between September and October 2025, in which over 4,600 residents, business owners, and local stakeholders shared their views on how to allocate the town's £20 million 10-year regeneration funding.
Public safety emerged as a primary concern for 64 per centof survey respondents.
Feedback highlighted the urgent need for upgraded CCTV, better street lighting, and a safer environment for pedestrians, cyclists, and shoppers.
Further insights gathered from thematic sub-groups (representing 77 local organisations) and grassroots community sessions reinforced fear of crime and anti-social behaviour (ASB) as major barriers to town centre vibrancy.
In response, the Pride in Place Board identified town centre community safety as an immediate priority for early investment.
Working alongside West Midlands Police and Birmingham City Council, the board approved the CCTV upgrading initiative as its first investment.
The upgraded network will feature Next-Generation High-Definition Cameras with advanced Siklu Wireless Data Links to transmit real-time video feeds efficiently, and directly to the Birmingham Operations Centre.
This infrastructure investment directly aligns with Priority 7 ('Promote safety and security in the town') of the Royal Sutton Coldfield Regeneration Plan and Investment Priorities, supporting the broader PiPP objectives of cultivating 'Thriving Places' and 'Stronger Communities'.
Doug Wright, chair of the Pride in Place Board, said: “As chair of Royal Sutton Coldfield PiP Board, I am proud that the first project to be funded by PiP is an upgrade of the town centre CCTV.
"Local voices shaped the Board’s regeneration plan and funding priorities, and this project is a direct response to what our residents and town centre businesses have asked for to address community safety concerns in the town centre. I look forward to announcing further exciting PiP-funded projects for Royal Sutton Coldfield.”
Cllr Simon Ward, leader of Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council, added: “The start of these works to revitalise our CCTV represents another milestone in the regeneration of our town centre.
"We are seeing an increase in private-sector investment, with the recent opening of Harvey Norman, ongoing investment in Gracechurch, and the new ALDI store.
"The leadership of the Town Council and, now, Pride in Place, has been crucial in creating the environment for this investment. High-quality CCTV in our town centre helps to ensure a safe, welcoming, and thriving environment for all our residents, visitors and helps draw in further investment."
The town's MP Sir Andrew Mitchell said: “I am delighted that work is underway to deliver this upgraded CCTV network. This investment sends a clear message that we are committed to keeping our town centre safe for residents, families, and local businesses.
"Royal Sutton Coldfield’s communities deserve to feel safe and secure, and this upgraded network will be a vital tool in both deterring crime and supporting our local community.”
