CLOSED-circuit television (CCTV) cameras will be installed in public areas in inner Newcastle to deter crime and antisocial behaviour.

Newcastle councillors approved last night a proposal to test the technology for a year in the civic precinct.

Newcastle City Council will set up three cameras there because the area has been targeted by vandals in the past year.

Although footage will not be regularly monitored, it can be made available to police to investigate crime and antisocial behaviour.

The civic authority's lead is expected to prompt installation of an extra six cameras in other areas, such as the Hunter Street Mall.

The City Centre Precinct Committee and Newcastle Liquor Accord stated before last night's meeting that they would pay for the extra cameras if the council also installed some.

The previous council, which finished its term in September, decided not to put CCTV cameras in the inner city when the matter was considered in June.

But public lobbying for cameras has continued since then, because of ongoing problems with late night violence and illegal graffiti in the inner city.

Police, business and community members have voiced their support for the technology.

The year's trial will provide council with information on running costs and the camera's effect on levels of crime and antisocial behaviour.

Councillors have requested quarterly reports to monitor the situation.