The number of cameras at Gare will almost double

The Luxembourg City Council has approved a large-scale expansion of the Visupol video surveillance system in the Gare district, one of the capital's busiest and most socially challenging neighbourhoods. The 130 cameras already in operation in public spaces will be joined by 110 more, covering around 30 additional streets. The project, announced by the police a year ago, has now received official approval from the municipality.

Supporters of the initiative say the goal is to improve safety and quality of life. According to Robert Philippart, a councillor from the Democratic Party (DP), Gare combines schools, shops, residential buildings, social infrastructure and an area of active prostitution, making it a "sensitive" area. He emphasised that the cameras are installed exclusively in public places and do not affect private property.

Opponents of the decision fear that increased control in one area may only shift crime to other neighbourhoods. Philippart stated that there is no evidence of such "displacement," adding that other factors, including free public transport, also influence urban mobility.

Opposition representatives took a cautious stance: most supported the bill or abstained. Gabriel Boisante of the LSAP questioned the ability of cameras to prevent crime "on the spot," noting that they are more likely to assist in subsequent investigations. Tom Weidig of the ADR, while supporting the measure, warned of the risk of shifting the balance towards excessive control.

More systematic criticism was voiced by representatives of déi Lénk and déi Gréng. Tom Wagner of the Left pointed out that Gare had suffered from a lack of investment for decades and emphasised the importance of urban revitalisation and the development of public life. François Benoy of the Greens recalled that previous phases of CCTV expansion had not led to a clear reduction in crime and warned against viewing cameras as a universal solution.

According to Bob Biever of CSV, the new coverage area will extend from the railway station to Place de Paris and the surrounding streets, including the Boulevard de la Pétrusse area. Further projects are already being considered, including in Bonnevoie and, in the longer term, in Dommeldange and Eich.