CCTV domes planned for two key Hartlepool sites

Hartlepool Borough Council officers have submitted proposals to the area’s planning department for CCTV to be installed in Church Square and at the Waterfront.

It comes after a report to the council Finance and Policy Committee last year said there was money remaining in the neighbourhood investment programme for CCTV at key town sites, such as Church Square and the Waterfront.

This came as an extension to a scheme to install CCTV in Seaton Park, Rossmere Park, Burn Valley Gardens and Ward Jackson Park, which was delivered using funding previously allocated for barrier works.

Two separate planning applications have now been submitted for the two new sites, with one earmarking by The Northern School of Art in Church Square to locate CCTV.

The second states they are looking to locate CCTV near the Jackson’s Landing site at the Waterfront.

Plans state dome cameras have been chosen for both sites to ‘minimise local persons understanding upon where cameras are actually monitoring’.

They also note if required the cameras can have privacy zones inserted to avoid views into residential areas.

A design and access statement from the council states consultations will be held to reassure the public over the benefits of the CCTV and allow residents to ask questions.

It said: “The Community Safety and Engagement Team will carry out a public consultation comprising a press release regarding the proposals which will advertise a drop-in for the public at the Community Hub Central/Central Library.

“This will allow the general public to provide their views on the CCTV camera proposal and to discuss with residents the proposed location for the new camera, explain its purpose, and reassure residents about how the council would be operating the camera legally and while respecting their privacy.”

A decision on the plans is due to be made by the council planning department by April this year.

To comment on the applications visit the Hartlepool Borough Council planning portal online and search reference number H/2020/0026 for the Church Square plans and H/2020/0011 for the Waterfront plans.