New camera to help deter anti-social behaviour and driving in Littleover

A new camera has been fitted to help catch and deter anti-social behaviour and driving in Littleover.

The CCTV camera has been placed in Carlisle Avenue following complaints from residents.

With the recent warm weather the community has seen an increase in anti-social behaviour in both the street and the nearby King George’s Park. There have also been reports of vehicles driving in an anti-social manner.

As a result, the camera has been fitted to help catch those responsible – as well as deter further similar behaviour.

Sergeant Ben Wildman, who leads the policing team in the area, said: “We have listened to the concerns raised and the new camera will help assist my team in dealing with any incident that may take place on the street – as well help target people who are driving in an anti-social manner.

“With the information gathered from the footage drivers will be educated about their actions - with consideration for them to be sent a warning if there is sufficient evidence of them using their vehicles in an anti-social manner. 

“Should a driver receive several warnings this could lead to their vehicle being crushed.”

The team has already seen a number of these warnings handed out to other drivers in the area in recent weeks after concerns were raised by the community – in particular, local group “Carlisle Against Crime”.

Sergeant Wildman said: “The installation of the new camera shows the force acting on the concerns of the community - and the integral part groups such as "Carlisle Against Crime" play in improving the lives of local people. 

“It has been great to see so many residents turn out to speak to us on the installation of the camera this week, and I would urge people to continue to report these issues to the team so we can continue to target our resources where the issues are most keenly felt.”

Dawn Gee, from Carlisle Against Crime, said: “Carlisle Avenue has unfortunately been the victim of vehicles driving carelessly and boy racers for many years.

“So, it is good to see an initiative where the community, police and council officials have worked so closely together to improve the safety of our neighbourhood.

“The local team has listened to the voice of the community and proposed the installation of the camera. This, coupled with the support of Sgt Ben Wildman, will hopefully make a really positive difference to the community.”