New CCTV camera planned for Nantwich town centre crime hotspot
Nantwich councillors have agreed to budget for an additional CCTV camera covering the walkway between Snow Hill car park and Swine Market after concerns were raised about incidents
By Nantwich News
An additional CCTV camera is planned for Nantwich town centre after councillors agreed to set aside funding to improve coverage in an area identified as a public safety concern.
Nantwich Town Council voted to budget for a new camera covering the walkway between Snow Hill car park and Swine Market, alongside the Home Bargains store.
The area was highlighted during a safety walk involving police and other representatives earlier this year.
Councillors were told the walkway had recorded one of the highest numbers of reported incidents among the locations considered, despite currently having no CCTV coverage.
The route is also an important pedestrian link into the town centre from Snow Hill car park and can be particularly busy during the evening.
Police have supported improved coverage of the location.
Nantwich Police Sgt Matt Stonier described the walkway as a particular pinch-point during the night-time economy and said discussions had taken place about possible locations for additional cameras.
The cost of installing a camera is expected to be around £7,500 to £8,000.
Councillors also considered whether another camera should be provided around Nantwich railway station and the Railway Hotel area on Wellington Road, where CCTV coverage was also identified as an issue.
However, members agreed to include funding for one new camera covering the Snow Hill and Swine Market walkway in next year’s budget.
The town council will also hold discussions with Cheshire East Council and Cheshire Police to identify other locations where additional CCTV or improved lighting could help.
Some councillors suggested other organisations should be approached about contributing towards cameras, particularly where locations such as the railway station are concerned.
Other areas mentioned during the discussion included Nantwich Lake car park and the railway bridge near the Airman’s Grave.
Councillors also considered the different roles of lighting and CCTV in improving public safety, with improved lighting potentially acting as a deterrent while cameras can provide evidence when incidents occur.
Nantwich Town Council owns CCTV cameras around the town, while Cheshire East Council provides 24-hour monitoring under an existing service agreement.
The latest decision means funding will now be planned for the Snow Hill and Swine Market camera, while discussions continue over whether further improvements are needed elsewhere in the town.