In the news: Comprehensive set of new and improved CCTV cameras across Basildon Town Centre
A comprehensive set of new and improved CCTV cameras are being installed across Basildon Town Centre thanks to match funding from the council alongside partner organisations.
The council, First Bus, Essex Police, and the Police, Fire & Crime Commissioner for Essex Roger Hirst, have each invested £12,500 to improve the coverage and quality of cameras across the town centre.
Currently, there are three council CCTV cameras across the town centre. These are all located in the main town square.
The new cameras will increase our coverage dramatically, going from three to 27. That includes 12 through Basildon Bus Station, where there is currently no CCTV, and another 15 spread through the breadth of the town centre across all areas. This includes the night-time economy areas of The Beehive pub, The Loft, and East Square.
Leader of Basildon Council, Councillor Andrew Baggott, said: "With a growing night-time economy in the town centre, I'm delighted that we've been able to work with partner organisations to deliver such a brilliant project for our residents.
"Areas like Basildon Bus Station and up by the old Toys R'Us have not previously had CCTV, so this is a drastic improvement in the breadth of our CCTV coverage, that I hope makes residents feel safer when out and about."
Police, Fire & Crime Commissioner for Essex, Roger Hirst, added: "I am really pleased to have been able to contribute funding to the new CCTV system in Basildon Town Centre. By working in partnership, we can make our town centres and communities places that everyone can feel safe in day and night. The new CCTV system will help do exactly that."
Commercial Director at First Essex, Garry Nicholass, added: "We are pleased to be involved in this safety initiative in partnership with Basildon Council and with support from other key stakeholders across the Basildon area.
"It is important for people to be able to walk around the town and bus station areas in the knowledge that CCTV cameras, that are positioned in strategic locations, are monitoring any anti-social behaviour that may occur. It is also important for us as the local bus operator to know that our customers can feel safe and supported when waiting in the bus station vicinity for their dedicated local bus service".
The feeds will be viewed by the council's CCTV team for monitoring and retrospective viewing.
ENDS
Published on Friday 17 February 2023