FOUR mobile cameras have been bought by Scottish Borders Council with the aim of focusing on crime and anti-social behaviour across the Borders.

When members of the local authority’s decision-making Executive Committee meet on Tuesday (November 12) they will be informed that the cameras, data and service pack have been purchased for £33,507.60.

Appropriate training is expected to be delivered during November, with up to four council officers to be identified as users.

Members will be told the cameras will only be deployed in an overt way with appropriate signage in public areas.

A report to the meeting states: “The principle behind each camera deployment will be on the basis it is necessary, justifiable and proportionate to achieve a legitimate aim. This being the prevention and detection of crime and anti-social behaviour.

“Proposed locations for a camera deployment are likely to come from a variety of sources.

“Each will be subject to screening through an analytical assessment to determine what information is available to support the request.

“This information will be brought to the monthly council-funded police Community Action Team Oversight Group meeting. The meeting is attended by elected members giving geographic and political representation.

“Should Police Scotland require access to any images this will be done via a formal disclosure request. We will provide still images with information not required redacted.

“At all stages of the process accurate record keeping will be maintained. No images are stored in the cameras and all images will be deleted after a pre-set period of 30 days, unless it is determined necessary to retain for a longer period.”