The Midland Metro’s CCTV cameras are to go digital as part of a new £290,000 security system for the tram network.

Bosses at public transport promoter Centro-WMPTA approved the switch to digital today (Friday May 11) as part of a package of measures to make passengers feel even safer.

The new digital equipment, which is being backed by the British Transport Police, will provide better quality pictures than the existing analogue system.

The 72 cameras already in place along the tram route between Birmingham Snow Hill and Wolverhampton St Georges will feed images to a new digital brain.

The state-of-the-art equipment will make it easier for staff to monitor pictures and to find recorded clips of any incidents that may occur.

It will also provide enhanced security cover for trackside equipment, electrical substations and platforms.

In the longer term, Centro-WMPTA is planning to install a further 103 cameras along the line, build a new control room and look at extra security measures at each of the 23 Metro stops.

The digital system also has the capacity to cover any future expansion of the Metro network.

Cllr Roger Horton, Vice Chair of Centro-WMPTA and lead member for Metro said: “This is very good news for Midland Metro and will work perfectly alongside the digital cameras already installed on the trams.

 “Worries about security are often a barrier to people using public transport. This new system will mean that people can have even more assurance that their safety is a top priority when using the Metro.”

British Transport Police Chief Inspector Allan Gregory, Sector Commander for the West Midlands, said:  “The move from analogue to digital cameras along the Midland Metro Line is a significant step forward.

“Footage from existing cameras provided by Centro has already proved invaluable in bringing offenders of the railway system to justice and deterring crime.

“The new cameras will be even more beneficial in helping to identify suspects and bring them before the courts. British Transport police warmly welcome this continued investment.”