Shopkeepers have complained of being fobbed off by the local authority’s CCTV service – with one councillor stating callers were being instructed to call the cops.

Independent Cllr Ronnie McNicol raised the issue last week after questioning how many requests were made to North Ayrshire’s CCTV service based in Fullarton in the financial year 20/21.

Councillors heard a total 5,249 incidents were recorded during this period at last week’s Full Council meeting – with 3,907 requests from shopkeepers made via radio link.

Council leader Joe Cullinane added that there were 258 further evidence review requests from police while investigating enquiries with 185 discs made which could be used in court as evidence.

Cll McNicol said: “According to the code of practice the system comprises of 145 surveillance cameras and is staffed 24-7. Since the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions I have been approached by numerous traders – who I believe pay £28 a month to be part of the radio link network where shopkeepers and licensees can contact each other to warn of suspected trouble.

“They inform me when they call the concierge station no one speaks to them and when they do the trader is informed to call the police on 101 which is more time consuming call than radio contact.”

He asked if the cameras were monitored by operators on a 24/7 basis and the number of staff on duty at any time in regards to COVID-19, and any other duties.

Cllr Cullinane said he did not have the information to hand but that it would be provided to elected members in due course – with North Ayrshire Council since approached by the Times for comment.