New measures to tackle anti-social behaviour and improve health and wellbeing are being introduced in a County Durham town.
High quality CCTV cameras have been installed at Glenholme Park in Crook after funding was secured from Durham County Council’s 3 Towns Area Action Partnership.
The council has been working with Durham Constabulary to address concerns of anti-social behaviour in the park, with 3 Towns Partnership allocating more than £50,000 from its area budget to help reduce the fear of crime. Signs will be in place to make it clear the park is being monitored, with the authority’s CCTV team in Chilton checking the cameras.
Cllr Elizabeth Scott, Cabinet member for economy and partnerships, said: “Everyone has the right to feel safe and secure in their community. That’s why we have listened to concerns raised by residents in the Crook area and worked alongside our partners to introduce the CCTV cameras.
“This will help to ensure that everyone can enjoy the park safely, especially those who are young or elderly, and walking on their own. The cameras will also help the police to identify those who are causing issues in the park, so that action can be taken against these individuals.”
Neighbourhood Sergeant Grant Cockerill said: “I am delighted that our partners have funded this initiative and enabled the purchase of the CCTV cameras to be used in the park.
“These cameras will assist us in the detection and prevention of anti-social behaviour and crime and support our aim to ensure Crook continues to be a safe and enjoyable place to live and work.
“I hope residents in Crook are reassured that we are listening to your concerns and taking positive action to improve confidence within our community.”
Additional funding of £20,000 from the 3 Towns Partnership Towns and Villages fund will see a new outdoor gym facility located in the park to encourage adults and teenagers to be more active.
Cllr Scott added: “As well as feeling safe whilst using the park, we hope the new outdoor gym will promote the benefits of an active lifestyle. It’s the perfect setting to exercise whilst enjoying some fresh air and will allow residents to improve their physical health and mental wellbeing.”
