CCTV is to be upgraded in towns across the borough with a “significant investment” planned in the not-too-distant future.
The decision was taken at the monthly meeting of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council tonight (Monday).
It will see investment to replace old, dysfunctional equipment across the borough made available.
And this will provide “significant improvements to coverage and image quality”.
The move has been welcomed by DUP Councillor Margaret Tinsley.
She said she had been working with Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart and council officers and PSNI for many years on this issue.
And speaking after it came before council tonight and was given backing, Councillor Tinsley said: “We want to thank all the officers who have worked alongside delivering this project.
“It has taken many years but delighted to welcome this significant investment.”
Both she and Carla Lockhart have hailed the agreement made, saying: “There is anecdotal evidence from local businesses that the cost-of-living crisis is resulting in an increase in thefts from local businesses across our towns and villages.
“In addition to this, we also have ongoing issues of low level anti-social behaviour in certain areas within local towns.
“CCTV is extremely beneficial in addressing these issues. It can also help identify the more organised crime gangs that can operate within our town centres, targeting local businesses.
“It provides a level of reassurance for local businesses that there are eyes on their business and can provide a more co-ordinated approach to information sharing.
“Of course, for this to be effective, we need the CCTV to be fit for purpose. For too long now many cameras across the ABC area within town centres have not been functioning. That offers no assistance in addressing these issues of community safety and crime prevention.
“Indeed in many crimes across the area it featured that there was no CCTV in some areas of the town. That is why we are delighted that working together we have succeeded in securing a commitment for investment in CCTV across ABC town centres. This will see significant improvements to coverage and image quality.
“This is good news for the business community, as well as shoppers and all of us who enjoy visiting our town centres.”
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