Kirklees Council has announced plans to allocate almost £2 million toward combating anti-social behaviour and criminal activity across the district.
The local authority currently operates a network of 134 public realm surveillance cameras positioned throughout Cleckheaton, Heckmondwike, Birstall, Mirfield, Batley, Dewsbury, Huddersfield, and Holmfirth.
These cameras provide continuous monitoring around the clock.
However, a significant portion of the current infrastructure has been installed for several years and depends on outdated analogue systems, which are becoming progressively harder to maintain and repair.
The funding package, totalling £1.92 million, will be directed toward replacing and upgrading the existing camera network with more modern, dependable equipment.
The council is preparing to enter the procurement phase of the initiative, with additional information regarding the upgraded system and its implementation to be released once a contractor has been selected.
Councillor Simon Brophy, who serves as Cabinet Member for Strategic Finance and Local Government Efficiency, outlined the council’s objectives.
The protection of all residents through measures such as the reduction of anti-social behaviour was identified as a primary concern.
The investment in surveillance infrastructure was said to support both the prevention and resolution of criminal offences, while also enabling more effective enforcement operations in conjunction with partner agencies including the police force.
The anticipated benefits of the upgrade include the revitalisation of town centre areas, the enhancement of community pride, and assistance for local commercial enterprises.
Economic growth within Kirklees was cited as another key objective for the council.
The existing surveillance framework has provided service to the district for numerous years, though the underlying technology has grown outdated.
Officials indicated that an updated network would offer improved cost-effectiveness and would be better suited to meeting the future requirements of local communities.