VICTOR HARBOR - Five surveillance cameras are set to be placed in prominent locations around the Victor Harbor CBD to deter and convict vandals.

The cameras will record for 24 hours and be monitored by police.

The issue was discussed at the first Economic Development Committee (EDC) meeting last Thursday, with the case put forward and working parties convened to drive its implementation.

Following advice from SAPOL's head of security and with the help of the new Victor Harbor officer in charge, Sen Sgt Adrian Burnett, council staff have drawn up an equipment and installation plan.

Funding of $50,000 has been sought under the state Crime Prevention & Community Safety Grants Program with a decision by the end of March.

If the council is successful with its funding request the first camera could be installed by May.

"I think it is fantastic idea," Sen Sgt Burnett said.

"It means we can spot trouble brewing, and stop it before it happens," he added.

The technology, known as CCTV, is already in Adelaide; where there are 400 cameras in the CBD monitored 24 hours.

The cameras and image recording technology are highly sophisticated. On top of multiple zoom facilities the cameras can be set for certain criteria, for example when a body is entering the view.

They can also be calibrated to report any item that has been left unattended over time.

The EDC, along with the support of the Victor Harbor Business Association and council, feels the need for the cameras is strong as there has been an escalation of criminal activity over the past two years as more people have moved to the coast.

"It is particularly evident along the Ocean Street and Victoria Street business districts, with increasing graffiti attacks and most shop windows scratched and many broken," economic development officer Roy Ramage said.

One recent vandalism attack was on Mr Menswear in Ocean Street where the main window was smashed.

This ended up costing shop owner, Alan Kluske, over $2,000 to repair.

Mr Kluske said he supports the cameras, and hopes some of the vandals can be caught.

"I think they are just looking for something to do, and if the cameras can stop that then they are worth the money," he said.

Cadell Street in Goolwa already has surveillance cameras in place; they were put up in November 2006.