I WOULD like to clarify some points raised in Dean Harris's letter, (Weston Mercury July 16) about CCTV at Marine Lake or indeed throughout North Somerset.
I WOULD like to clarify some points raised in Dean Harris's letter, (Weston Mercury July 16) about CCTV at Marine Lake or indeed throughout North Somerset.
That Mr Harris often 'cleans up' others litter is commendable and he is not wrong in pointing out that it's the responsibility of those making the litter to clean up after them.
However, Mr Harris's comments on the CCTV in the area are not only misleading but irresponsible.
The fact is that if CCTV cameras can identify anyone smashing bottles or indulging in any kind of anti-social behaviour operators will advise the appropriate authority (police, ranger service, etc) and record the evidence. This includes when calls come into CCTV from the public, which we encourage. To suggest there is 'nothing we can do' is ludicrous.
Naturally if we cannot see the incident, or it has already happened we are not witness to it and as such the person, as the potential witness, should report this directly to the police. The police will liaise with us immediately on receiving the call and we could pass vital information back such as if the anti-social behaviour was continuing, direction of travel of the alleged perpetrators and so forth. Working with the police we will also review the images from the time of the incident and may discover that CCTV did in fact pick it up.
Misleading is also applicable to the comment re 'dispersal'. I assume Mr Harris means a 'dispersal order' of which there simply isn't one.
We are not complacent and do recognise there are some problems around this area due to a mindless few and are working hard with police to address them. I would urge the public not to be dissuaded in calling us. Yes, if there is a 'crime in progress' or you are 'witness' to a crime you should call the police directly but we welcome calls if you have any suspicions or concerns. We will monitor the situation if required we will record the evidence and call the police. Contrary to Mr Harris's suggestions we will be more than happy to help you. Our number for the public is 01934 634711.
CHRIS HARRISON
CCTV Manager, North Somerset Council
Oxford Street, Weston
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