A trial to move from analogue to digital fibre-optic lines has already begun and, if successful, the system would be transferred from next year. The move would offer a significant reduction in operational costs.

The decision was due to be made by the ruling executive last week, but has been delayed to allow further investigation into the benefits of the improved system.

Council Steve Galloway, City of York Council’s executive member for city strategy, said: “There needs to be more consideration given to the report.

“One of the reasons is that we need to understand more fully what funding is available. Also, we need to look into the ability to monitor in real time, and the possibility of cameras recording live.”

There are 72 CCTV cameras in York – 69 analogue and three digital – monitored on 21 screens from Fulford Road Police Station by council staff and North Yorkshire Police.

Control of the system could move to a new base at the council’s new headquarters, but a council report raised concerns the new control room would require extra staffing which would not be affordable under the current budget.

The report said: “Although the current arrangement of operating with two staff present during the day, and one during the night is sufficient for current camera numbers, a point will be reached in the future when it is not. Unless a solution for the expansion of staffing is planned out in the near future, this issue will become a limiting factor on the expansion of the system.”

A North Yorkshire Police spokesman said the system played an important part in tackling antisocial behaviour.

He said: “As well as being a deterrent, CCTV is also invaluable in providing information to solving crime and assisting with other critical police inquiries, such as locating people who are reported missing from home.”