Funding approved for new CCTV cameras in Worthing after shoplifting concerns

Councillors have approved funding for new CCTV cameras in Worthing following reports identifying the town as a hotspot for shoplifting.

Worthing Borough Council confirmed it will use more than £67,000 of community infrastructure levy funding to upgrade 16 existing CCTV units in the town centre and seafront, alongside installing four new cameras at High Street multi storey car park.

The new cameras are expected to offer improved durability for coastal conditions and enhanced coverage with 360 degree recording capabilities. A portable CCTV unit will also be introduced to target areas experiencing recurring issues such as anti social behaviour or fly tipping.

The investment follows studies which ranked Worthing among the highest areas in the UK for recorded shoplifting incidents.

One report suggested the town had the highest rate per population, while another placed it second only to Westminster. Local authorities and police noted that improved reporting practices may have contributed to higher recorded figures, with initiatives such as One Touch Reporting helping businesses report incidents more easily.

Sussex Police said it does not recognise some of the claims made in the studies but confirmed that tackling shoplifting remains a priority. Increased patrols, partnership working with businesses and targeted operations have led to prosecutions of repeat offenders.

The council said the upgraded CCTV system would support police efforts, improve public safety and act as a deterrent to crime in the town centre and surrounding areas.