Wundowie police are confident that they will be able to keep communities feeling safe under an upgraded CCTV system, to be rolled out by the end of the year.
The Shire of Northam’s community safety committee has helped secure stage two of the Shire’s CCTV project which will focus on building infrastructure in Wundowie.
More than $250,000 has been provided to upgrade the current system.
Wundowie Police Station officer in charge Sergeant Jamie Cresswell said the current CCTV, although utilised, is in need of modernising.
“It will enhance community safety which is important,” Sergeant Cresswell said.
“We want people to feel protected and safe.
“It is a really effective tool to help tackle and prevent crime and antisocial behaviour.
“The more the CCTV the more eyes we have on the community.”
Sergeant Cresswell said the money will go to good use.
“As we know budgetary restraints are everywhere at the moment so to get grants is great,” he said.
“It is a massive amount of money.
“It goes to show what a collaborative approach with the Shire, police and the progress association can do.”
The Shire of Northam community development officer Michelle Blackhurst said Sergeant Cresswell has been a strong advocate for the Wundowie community within the Shire of Northam.
Sergeant Cresswell emphasised that the cameras are not ‘big brother’
“It is completely about community safety, so we can keep an eye on what is happening around town when we are not out on the streets,” he said.
“Hoon driving is an issue.
“Being able to catch it on CCTV will help because within seconds they are gone.
“It will help us pick up a trail and a registration so we can have a chance to identify those responsible.
“If you have video footage of it is makes the court’s job easier.”
