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Controlware shortlisted for two awards at the IFSEC innovation awards

Specialist IP CCTV supplier Controlware Communications has been shortlisted for the Best Project Award as well as the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) award for use of technology for improving public safety at this years IFSEC Innovation awards.

The judging panel were specifically looking for innovative installations that have a significant impact on public safety and have selected the North Lanarkshire Council project Controlware have been working on with partners ntl:Telewest Business.

With one of the lowest crime rates in the country, North Lanarkshire Council has pioneered the use of CCTV as part of its commitment to public safety.  To replace its outdated system, the Council turned to ntl:Telewest Business and Controlware Communications - and now has in place the first fully managed converged solution of its kind in the UK, and one of the largest in Europe.

To improve operational efficiency, the Council decided to centralise its CCTV monitoring operations.  The outdated analogue-based system, which had no capacity for expansion and required excessive videotape storage space, was replaced with an innovative, IP-based CCTV solution.

The leading-edge IP CCTV solution converts analogue camera feeds into digital signals and transmits them, via an ntl:Telewest 2GB Metro Ethernet VPN, to the central monitoring unit, where operators monitor images from over 300  CCTV cameras.  The network incorporates high levels of resilience, rerouting traffic without disrupting transmission and is supported by a 24/7 managed service, which pinpoints the location of any fault and alerts the Council automatically.

Working in partnership with Strathclyde Police North Lanarkshire Council help maintain crime levels in region at 10% below the Scottish average and target 15% reduction in incidents of anti-social behaviour and a 10% increase in reported crime.

"We felt that an IP-based solution would be more flexible and offer the best long-term value.  ntl:Telewest Business and Controlware Communications were extremely client-focused in their approach and tailored a solution to meet our needs.  Considering the scale of the project, there weren't many problems.  However, the strong relationship we developed meant that we were able to work together to resolve any issues that occurred."

"Supported by ntl:Telewest Business and Controlware Communications, we will continue to provide communities with peace of mind, ensuring that North Lanarkshire remains a pleasant and safe place to live, work and visit," said Emma Walker, Project Manager, North Lanarkshire CCTV.