RSC to upgrade its security systems with 43 new CCTV cameras at two Stratford theatres
THE Royal Shakespeare Company is planning to update its ageing CCTV system as well as adding more cameras.
The company currently has 26 internal and external cameras covering the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and the Grade II-listed Swan Theatre.
A planning application, submitted to Stratford District Council, states that the system, which is separate to SDC’s CCTV cameras, has been in place for more than 10 years.
The plan is to keep some of the cameras, upgrade and reposition others and add 12 new external and 33 internal cameras. After removing two cameras from the canopy facing the Bancroft Gardens, the proposals would increase by 43 the number of cameras covering the RSC’s two theatres and café.
The application states: “To be clear, the existing and proposed cameras are designed to cover private property owned by the RSC, not the public realm. They are operated by the RSC independently of, but in cooperation with, the CCTV system operated by Stratford District Council.”
It adds: “The review of current CCTV provision has identified a clear need to upgrade the existing system replacing old cameras – many of which are analogue – and covering existing blind spots where coverage is required for potential anti-social behaviour, fire evacuation routes and general security.”
Cameras would be located to minimise their visibility and impact, especially on the heritage parts of the site, the report states.
