Rushmoor Borough Council is trialling mobile CCTV cameras to help deter antisocial behaviour and fly-tipping in hotspot areas across Aldershot and Farnborough.
The new Mobile CCTV policy allows the council to place cameras in areas not currently covered by its existing CCTV system, where there are repeated problems affecting residents, businesses or public spaces.
The council successfully applied to Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones for £12,500 from her Anti-social Behaviour Fund to purchase two cameras, with further units to be bought if they prove successful.
The mobile cameras are solar and battery powered and record footage securely. They will be used on public council land and, where appropriate, on land owned by partners with permission, such as housing associations or Hampshire County Council. There will be clear notification in areas where the camera is operating.
The cameras support the council’s work with Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary, housing associations, schools and other partners to identify those responsible for antisocial behaviour, fly-tipping and other offences, and to take appropriate action where needed.
Councillor Christine Guinness, Portfolio Holder for Pride in Place and Neighbourhood Services said:
“We know antisocial behaviour and fly-tipping can have a real impact on how people feel about where they live. Mobile CCTV will give us an additional tool to respond quickly to repeat hotspot areas, gather evidence and support enforcement where needed.
“The cameras will be used responsibly and only where there is clear evidence that they are needed. This is about helping to make our neighbourhoods cleaner, safer and more welcoming for everyone.”
Police and Crime Commissioner, Donna Jones, added: “I’m pleased to have funded these cameras to help tackle the blight that is anti-social behaviour on our society.
“Having good evidence is vital for successful prosecutions and the ability to relocate them to problem areas will not only help that but will act as a strong deterrent to those who think they can break the law and get away with it.
“Police officers work extremely hard alongside partners to make sure our villages, towns and cities are safe places to live and visit, and these cameras are a great addition to their armoury.”
Residents are encouraged to continue reporting antisocial behaviour and fly-tipping to the council, as reports help identify patterns and support decisions about where mobile CCTV could be deployed.
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