The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
New high-tech CCTV cameras in are due to installed in Spalding in 18 key spots this week.
It follows South Holland District Council’s successful bid for Central Government’s Safer Streets Funding earlier this year.
With the whole project due to cost £400,000, the pre-existing CCTV cameras will be replaced by new high-tech versions which use innovative artificial intelligence (AI) technology.
A council spokesman said: “This technology will help South Holland District Council’s Community Safety team and Lincolnshire Police to locate vulnerable individuals using clothing descriptions or vehicle types automatically, without the need for a manual search.
“The project aims to deter crime in the town and make those who visit feel safer, particularly women and young girls, who according to the Office of National Statistics feel more unsafe when walking alone after dark than men and also fear being a victim of crime more than men.
“The new CCTV Cameras will help create a “safe zone area” in Spalding, allowing people to move safely from night clubs and pubs to transport links and taxi ranks.”
Councillor Gary Taylor, portfolio holder for communities and facilities said “I’m pleased that these new cameras are coming to Spalding. They will benefit not only our local residents, but local businesses too offering a safer environment to those who want to visit the town in the evenings and at night.
“I welcome these improvements to Spalding’s security and crime prevention and I know many local people will too.”
Marc Jones, Lincolnshire Police and Crime Commissioner said “It’s great to see that we’re installing these new and improved CCTV cameras in Spalding this week. They showcase our efforts to make the streets of Lincolnshire safer for all, but especially women and young girls.
“The new cameras and the creation of ‘safe zone areas’ will not only act as a preventative measure to deter criminals, but will save valuable time in getting to important evidence and increase the risk of detection, capture and conviction through the new AI technology.”
