New figures released by the District Council today have revealed the pivotal role the town’s CCTV network plays in keeping local roads safe, with operators directly assisting in the arrest of 68 individuals for drink and drug driving offenses.
While often associated with deterring anti-social behavior or spotting shoplifters, the Stratford-on-Avon District Council’s CCTV team has proven to be a crucial “second pair of eyes” for Warwickshire Police. The data covers the period from April to the recent holiday season, highlighting a robust crackdown on motorists driving under the influence.
The “Unsung Heroes” of Community Safety
The surveillance team, based in the District Council’s control room, monitors cameras 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Their work involves spotting erratic driving behavior in real-time and relaying precise information to officers on the ground via the direct ‘Airwaves’ radio link.
Cllr Natalie Gist, Portfolio Holder for Law and Governance, praised the vigilance of the operators following the release of the report.
“Our CCTV operators are the unsung heroes of community safety. While residents sleep, they are watching our streets to ensure that those who pose a danger to themselves and others are apprehended,” said Cllr Gist. “These 68 arrests represent potential accidents prevented and lives saved. It sends a clear message: if you drive under the influence in Stratford, you are being watched, and you will be caught.”
More Than Just Traffic
The report proves that the CCTV network is about more than just traffic violations. The 24/7 monitoring serves as a vital safeguard for the district’s night-time economy. Beyond the 68 driving offenses, the team has been instrumental in locating missing persons, flagging suspicious activity, and providing evidence for post-incident investigations.
The integration between the Council’s cameras and the police dispatchers means that response times are significantly reduced. In many of the drink-drive cases, operators were able to track a vehicle moving from a pub car park onto the main road, guiding police patrol cars to the exact location before the driver could leave the town center limits.
A Warning for 2026
With the new year well underway, local authorities are using these statistics to issue a renewed warning to residents and visitors. As Stratford prepares for its busy spring tourist season—and with the new direct bus routes from Oxford expected to bring more footfall—the safety of pedestrians and road users remains a top priority.
The Council has confirmed that investment in the camera network will continue, ensuring high-definition coverage of key hotspots. For the 68 drivers caught in this latest sweep, the cameras were the difference between getting away with it and facing the courts.
Residents who witness dangerous driving or suspicious activity are reminded to call 999 in an emergency or 101 for non-emergencies. However, as today’s figures show, the District’s “eye in the sky” is already one step ahead.
Have you noticed an increased police presence in town? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
