You might have seen a survey the Parish Council have recently sent out about bringing CCTV cameras into the village. About 80% of responses were in favour and 20% of responses were not in favour. Some of the not in favour were concerned with how it all works. So to start the conversation I can give an outline. A better, more accurate and detailed response will be provided by our Parish Clerk on the normal noticeboards and websites.

Why do we need CCTV?

We have a number of issues that need addressing. We have vandalism and rowdy behaviour in the Village, at the Stileman Way play area, mostly it seems later in the evening. We have parking issues that cause a danger to both other road users and pedestrians alike but also cause traffic jams. Mostly this is just thoughtlessness. There have been episodes of crime, such as the raids at the Co-op. 

To get this in perspective, we do not think the village is turning into a crime hot spot and at the moment anyway, not worthy of a television drama. We do however want to improve the ambiance of the village for everyone and make sure there is an adequate level of safeguarding . Considering the future population of the village will increase by 50%, surely it is sensible to look ahead.

How will it work?

We will have a policy governing the operation of the data collected that is currently used in other villages. In broad terms, the data, will be kept for a month on a secure server and will not be seen by anyone unless the Police, having identified an issue or crime, ask for access to the CCTV coverage for the area concerned. 

Where will the Cameras be sited?

There will be two at each end of the high street to cover the road from both ends. One in Stileman Way covering the play area and one on Lodge Road, once David Eyre has managed to solve the issue of the trees obstructing the solar panels that power the camera.

If this proves to be a success other areas will be considered but only where there is a clear need.

Full details will be provided by Shannon, our Parish Clerk once all the arrangements have been completed.