Businesses praise new CCTV system in busy market town
Business owners in a bustling market town in Rushcliffe say the new CCTV system is already ‘giving the people of Bingham peace of mind’ and locals are already feeling the difference.
These seven state-of-the-art cameras cover key areas including the marketplace, main precinct, and central car park, aiming to tackle antisocial behaviour, vehicle crime, and violence against women and girls.
The newly installed high-definition cameras are equipped with sophisticated night vision capabilities, enabling operators to monitor and identify incidents of antisocial behaviour at any time. This real-time surveillance allows authorities to promptly intervene, providing added peace of mind for residents and visitors in public spaces.
This initiative is part of a broader safety strategy made possible by a £1 million grant from the Home Office’s Safer Streets scheme, secured by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Nottinghamshire.
The Safer Streets scheme has been instrumental in enhancing public safety across various areas of Nottinghamshire. Previous rounds of funding have seen significant improvements in community security, such as the reduction of house burglaries by 46% and vehicle crime by 44% in the Trent Bridge ward in West Bridgford. These measures have not only made the areas safer but also boosted public confidence in local law enforcement efforts.
Of the total funding, £333,000 is allocated for the South Nottinghamshire Community Safety Partnership area, which also includes Beeston town centre and Arnot Hill Park in Gedling.
Local business owners in Bingham, known for its restaurants, bars and bustling marketplace, have responded positively to the new CCTV system.
Jenna, co-owner of CP Interiors in Bingham said: “We personally think this is a great idea and will definitely give our clients, ourselves and people of Bingham peace of mind when they visit the town centre.”
“For me what we’ve done is created a 360-degree approach, so the consumers journey is a safe journey from the moment they come into Bingham to the moment they leave,” said Chris, owner of Number Sixteen Bistro.
“Every single business you can see on the high street in Bingham today we have our own CCTV system so what this new system has done is it’s just extending what we already have in our businesses, for the consumer to enjoy this fantastic town.”
Beyond enhancing security, the introduction of these CCTV cameras is expected to have a positive economic impact. With the added security, the town is likely to attract more visitors and potential businesses, further stimulating the local economy. The cameras not only serve as a deterrent to crime but also as a testament to the town's commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment for all.
Nottinghamshire Police and Crime Commissioner Gary Godden expressed his support for the project, highlighting its importance in maintaining public safety and community trust. He said: "These CCTV cameras represent a crucial step in our ongoing efforts to make Rushcliffe a safer place.
“By increasing surveillance in key areas, we are not only deterring crime but also ensuring a rapid response when incidents do occur. This initiative underscores our commitment to protecting the community and enhancing the quality of life for all residents."
The local council and law enforcement agencies have collaborated closely to ensure the successful implementation of this project. This partnership highlights the importance of community involvement and government support in addressing safety concerns and improving the quality of life for residents. The new CCTV system is a proactive step towards a safer, more secure Bingham, setting a precedent for other towns in the region to follow.
Rushcliffe Borough Council have assisted the surveillance camera system rolling out in the prevention, investigation and detection of crime in the same way as an existing scheme in West Bridgford.
Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Environment and Safety Cllr Rob Inglis added: “The cameras are already making people feel safer, deterring disorder including environmental crime and anti-social behaviour and that can only enhance the safety of residents, visitors and many local businesses.
“They can be rapidly repositioned to respond to changing demands, a model that has worked well in other locations in Rushcliffe and we’re pleased they are already making an impact.”
The Town Mayor, Councillor Gareth Williams said: “The Town Council has supported the Safer Streets five project, and we are delighted to see the installation of seven new cameras around the Town Centre.
We hope that it brings residents and businesses in the Town reassurance of the commitment of all the stakeholders involved to keeping our streets safe.”
Neighbourhood Policing Inspector for Rushcliffe Tim Cuthbert said: “We’re delighted to have these new cameras in place, and believe the investment made will have a real impact on crime and anti-social behaviour in Bingham.
“We’ve worked closely with the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner team, and our partners at Bingham Town Council, as well as Rushcliffe Borough Council to get the project implemented, so to see the new cameras up and operating is fantastic.”