CCTV now operational in Craven Arms

A new CCTV system has been installed in Craven Arms as a joint initiative between Shropshire Council and Craven Arms Town Council, with the backing of the local police.

Two cameras have been installed in central locations in the town and they are now fully operational.

The cameras were funded by Shropshire Council and Craven Arms Town Council in a bid to reassure the community and act as a deterrent.

Chairman of Craven Arms Town Council, Clive Leworthy, said:

“Craven Arms Town Council has worked closely with Shropshire Council and the local police over the past few months to provide CCTV in the town.  Existing Home Office research and other evaluations indicate CCTV is part of an overall strategy in reducing crime and the fear of crime in communities, and plays a key role in helping the police detect crime and convict criminals.”

Inspector Rob Thomas from West Mercia Police said:

“CCTV plays an integral part in reducing and detecting crime and anti-social behaviour, and it is important in providing reassurance to law abiding people.  Evidence gathered from this new system, corroborated with witness evidence from the community, will assist in bringing offenders to book.  The work done in getting the system in place is a good example of many people working together for the benefit of their local area.”

Councillor Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member responsible for public protection, said:

“Anything we can do to improve safety for people can only be a good thing, and I hope these new cameras will make Craven Arms safer for everyone.”

Councillor David Evans, a Shropshire Councillor for Craven Arms, said:

“This is a positive step forward for Craven Arms, thanks to those that have helped with bringing this project together.”