Having listened to feedback from local people and Cumbria Constabulary, Police and Crime Commissioner Peter McCall is providing some one off funding to support Phase 2 of the CCTV system.
Increased CCTV coverage has been identified as giving assurance to communities about safety and helps to address anti-social behaviour (ASB) and crime in terms of investigating and preventing crime in our local communities.
Peter McCall comments: “The benefits of these extra cameras to the constabulary and the general public are clear. The cameras acts as a huge deterrent to criminals and having greater CCTV coverage to assist in the prevention and detection of crime can only be a good thing. Many local councils have asked for additional cameras which is why we are working in partnership with them I to achieve this.
“Footage can be used when providing an image that can later be used in court as evidence to prove someone was in a certain place or that they committed an offence. It can also improve community safety and prevent crime. For example, deterring someone committing a crime like robbery if they know CCTV will record their actions.
“My decision to expand the existing infrastructure so that it is able to host 80 cameras will give communities confidence in knowing that when needed, evidence from the cameras will be readily available, and help us to keep Cumbria the 2nd safest county in the country.
“I have identified funding which I intend to make available to assist local councils who choose to work with us to expand the current CCTV network in some of the towns without current CCTV provision.”
Assistant Chief Constable Andrew Slattery, Cumbria Constabulary said: “The planned expansion of the county’s CCTV network is welcome news and will assist our efforts to keep people in Cumbria safe.
“The existing suite of cameras have been in operation since 2015 and have assisted officers locate vulnerable missing people, as well as identify vehicles and individuals suspected to be involved in committing crime. CCTV footage provides officers with crucial evidence and provides key investigative opportunities.
“The move to increase the number of CCTV cameras in operation across the county is a positive step in improving the quality of life within our communities.
“The Constabulary are always looking at different ways in which technology can assist officers and staff keep people safe.”
Application forms and more information can be found here.
