Council to invest almost £2m to modernise CCTV

A council in West Yorkshire is to invest almost £2m in modernising its network of CCTV cameras in a bid to crack down on anti-social behaviour and crime.

Kirklees Council has 134 cameras across Huddersfield, Dewsbury, Batley, Mirfield, Cleckheaton, Heckmondwike, Birstall and Holmfirth, with the CCTV in place for a number of years.

It said the network relies on older analogue technology which is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain.

Councillor Simon Brophy, cabinet member for strategic finance and local government efficiency, said: "One of our priorities is to keep all people in Kirklees safe, for example by reducing anti-social behaviour.

"The existing CCTV system has served Kirklees for many years, but the technology is ageing.

"A more modern network will deliver better value for money and be fit for the future in meeting the needs of local communities."

The authority will spend £1.92m replacing and modernising the existing network, with "newer, more reliable technology" to be rolled out.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the council will soon begin the procurement stage of the scheme.

Further details about the new system and its rollout will be confirmed following the appointment of a supplier.

Brophy added: "Investing in CCTV will also help to prevent and solve crime and, alongside partners such as the police, bring more effective enforcement activity.

"These positive outcomes will help to revitalise our town centres, strengthening civic pride and supporting local businesses."

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