Civil libertarians have questioned the dramatic increase in the number of CCTV cameras operating in Melbourne’s CBD, saying they could potentially invade the privacy of citizens.

The Melbourne City Council today released a map of the 54 CCTV cameras placed in city trouble spots in a bid to deter and capture footage of violence.

Lord Mayor Robert Doyle said the cameras would be an important part of efforts by the council and Victoria Police to lessen city crime.

When asked about potential objections about the surveillance, Mr Doyle replied: "There will be groups that say this is Big Brother. I say 'bad luck'. The city's safety comes first".