Twenty-four new cameras are to be installed in towns across Cumbria to help tackle rural crime.
Four cameras will be installed in Windermere; three each in Maryport, Wigton and Ulverston; two in Penrith, Keswick and Kirkby Lonsdale; and one in Brampton, Ambleside, Cockermouth and Kendal.
Cumbria Constabulary and local authorities identified areas where additional CCTV cameras would best serve communities, adding 24 to the 56 already installed in phase one of the project.
“The current pandemic has obviously caused us some operational difficulties in rolling out the CCTV expansion project, but I’m pleased to say that the partnership has pulled together to ensure that the expansion has continued through these challenging times,” explained Andy Petty, CCTV Manager for Cumbria Constabulary.
“The expansion will mean that we have CCTV coverage in many more towns around the County and also provides additional coverage to the existing network”.
Peter Wood, director of Telemachus said: “The existing system has been in successful operation since 2015 and has been an invaluable tool in assisting Cumbria Constabulary to deal with a large number of incidents, including alcohol consumption, antisocial behaviour, assault, burglary, drugs, missing persons, public order and robbery.
“We believe the additional re-deployable cameras will increase public safety, prevent crime, aid tourism and provide additional peace of mind within the extra local communities.”
Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall added: “The last year has brought changes in priorities and adapted ways of working. Numerous cameras are already up and running, with the rest of the Phase 2 allocation due for installation over the next few months as we work through the road map of recovery from the pandemic.
“People have to feel safe in the area they live and the installation of CCTV cameras provides reassurance to local people, that the police are monitoring anti-social behaviour and its consequences.”
The Mayor of Cockermouth, Julie Laidlow commented: “The camera will assist us to reduce crime and ensure the continued economic prosperity of our community, providing much-needed reassurance.”
A snapshot of some of the evidence produced from CCTV cameras in Keswick from December 27, 2020 – January 2, 2021:
27.12.20 ASB – A group of young people were repeatedly kicking a ball up against shop windows in the Market Square. The CCTV created still pictures that were subsequently passed onto local officers.
28.12.20 – CCTV cameras assisted local officers in the search for two children missing from home who were subsequently found.
31.12.20 – In the early hours of the morning, CCTV recorded two hooded males seen to exit a white van and were acting suspiciously around shop premises. The vehicle details and stills were passed onto the Force for Intel.
02.01.21 – An alarm was activated on a retail premises and the location was subsequently covered by CCTV until uniform officers attended and checked the rear of the premises were secure.
