Cameras reduce crime
A third security camera has been installed at the Titahi Bay shops and there may be more to come.
As part of Porirua City Council’s village planning work in the suburb, an extra camera has been put in to cover an alley next to the theatre. This was installed after consultation with the residents association and police, with the CCTV footage fed to the police.
The cost of the camera was about $4000.
Some within the community can also use home computers to log in and check the footage live.
‘‘Our original plan was to have eight and we would still love to see more go in, but this is a major step forward,’’ Titahi Bay Residents Association chairman Graeme Ebbett said.
Vandalism to shop fronts occurs regularly and extra cameras will give piece of mind to store owners, he said, but more are needed at the rear of buildings.
‘‘ It’s definitely a deterrent and another good move by council in the village plan process. People want their village to feel safe and be safe.’’
The council’s village programme manager Ian Barlow said camera supervision has to be finalised with TBRA and police.
‘‘The costliest part of all this is the supervision. Part of having the system is having someone look at the live feedback, but this is something that has been pushed by local people and we’re happy to support it.
‘‘Anecdotally, it is working to reduce crime,’’ he said.
Four Square owner Ketan Kansara has cameras of his own but agrees there needs to be more in the shopping centre.
‘‘I can only see so much going on, but there are people drinking behind the theatre at night. When people knew I put cameras in, much of the trouble in front of my store stopped.’’