CCTV camera hailed a big success

The camera overlooks the play area adjacent to Crocus Gardens at Bishop Cuthbert and is connected to Hartlepool Borough Council’s CCTV Community Monitoring Centre.

(left-right): Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner Barry Coppinger, Aileen Kendon and Councillor Paul Beck.

The camera, funded by the Council, has been complemented by fencing and shrubs around the perimeter of the play area paid for by local Hart Ward Councillors Paul Beck and Jean Robinson. They jointly contributed £750 from their Ward Member Budgets, pots of money given to individual councillors by Hartlepool Council for grassroots projects.

Councillor Beck said: “The impact of the camera has been nothing short of astonishing. Since it became operational in October last year crime and anti-social behaviour in the area has reduced massively.

“Prior to the camera being installed, the area was plagued by crime and anti-social behaviour, including incidents where whole trees were uprooted and play equipment was damaged beyond repair.

“This wasn’t a pleasant situation for residents and I’m delighted that we have been able to bring about such a positive change.”

Councillor Beck paid tribute to the Bishop Cuthbert Residents Association, in particular former secretary Aileen Kendon who went out into the community and collected over 1,000 signatures on a petition calling for action.

Barry Coppinger, Cleveland Police and Crime Commissioner, added: “I would like to congratulate all parties – Hartlepool Borough Council, Ward Councillors and residents - involved in tackling the issues affecting this area.

“It shows that by working together we can all make a difference and improve the quality of life on our estates.”