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Entire city centre CCTV network replaced

BBC Saddler Street in the City of Durham. The road contains old buildings and opens out into a square, at the end of which is a church with a tall steeple. Several people are walking around the square.BBC
All 34 cameras in Durham city centre have been replaced at a cost of £141,000

The entire CCTV network in a city centre has been upgraded in a plan to address problems with anti-social behaviour.

All 34 cameras across Durham City have been replaced at a cost of £141,000, amid claims that residents and businesses say CCTV makes them "feel safer".

Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen allocated the money from the Home Office’s Safer Streets Fund for Durham County Council to make the changes.

It comes less than a month after the council approved a ban on nuisance behaviour in the city centre.

Councillor John Shuttleworth said the CCTV network "has proven essential in reducing crime and disorder".

He added: "These higher definition CCTV cameras will capture much clearer images, making it easier for CCTV operators to monitor, detect and prevent crime and anti-social behaviour."

Allen said: "Residents and businesses have repeatedly stressed that CCTV makes them feel safer."

Durham County Council A picture of from the old cameras, compared to the new ones two days later in July. The newer image is much clearer.Durham County Council
The new cameras are far clearer than the old ones.

Last month the local authority approved the introduction of a public space protection order (PSPO), but some criticised it as "criminalising poverty".

Insp Dave Clarke, from Durham City neighbourhood team, is hopeful the new cameras "reassures residents and business owners that we are taking positive action to improve confidence within the city".

"The cameras, in addition to the newly introduced PSPOs will help further protect Durham, preventing crime and providing clear evidence to allow us to identify and convict those responsible for crime and disorder."

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