Police Commissioner agrees county-wide CCTV scheme

Commissioner Agrees County-Wide CCTV Scheme

Police and Crime Commissioner for Cumbria, Richard Rhodes, formally signed off the proposals for Cumbria-wide CCTV, at the Public Executive Board meeting today.

The approved scheme  will provide a sustainable, scaleable county-wide CCTV solution with up to 54 cameras across the county, proactively monitored by a dedicated central team based at Police Headquarters in Penrith in liaison with  other communications centre staff and local Community Policing Teams.

Richard Rhodes said: “I am delighted to be able to confirm that the scheme, which is a joint project between the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, Cumbria Constabulary and the six District Councils of Eden,  Carlisle, Allerdale, Copeland, South Lakeland and Barrow, will now go ahead. 

“CCTV can play a vital role in delivering a safe and secure environment for people who live, work  and visit Cumbria, and supports crime prevention, reduces antisocial  behaviour, and crime and disorder.  It also has a significant impact on bringing offenders to justice, potentially reducing investigative time and freeing up officers. 

“I am always keen to work in partnership with other public and private sector partners, and this scheme is a great example of what can be achieved in Cumbria by working together.  It will deliver benefits to the local councils and savings for the police and wider Criminal Justice System by faster working and sharing of information.” 

Deputy Chief Constable Jeremy Graham said:

“It is great news that the CCTV scheme has now been approved. The new system will provide consistent and improved CCTV coverage across Cumbria.  CCTV acts as a deterrent for would-be criminals, helps track offenders, and gather evidence.

“I am looking forward to working closely with the Police and Crime Commissioner and local councils to provide an important tool to help solve crime and keep our local communities safe.”