Patrolling CCTV cams to catch louts in act

YOBS, litter louts and dirty dog owners now have no place to hide.

New travelling CCTV cameras have been introduced in North Tyneside, meaning Big Brother could be watching you when you least expect it.

North Tyneside Council now has a mobile CCTV van, which along with extra environmental wardens will be used to tackle environmental offences – such as dog fouling, littering, fly-tipping – and anti-social behaviour in public places.

As well as wardens issuing on-the-spot fines, the CCTV footage will be used to help with prosecutions.

The extra wardens will work within the council’s community protection team and an apprentice has also been recruited.

They will work from early in the morning until late at night, including weekends, to catch perpetrators.

North Tyneside Mayor, Norma Redfearn said: “As many residents will know, I pride myself on being a listening mayor and I am committed to responding to the concerns of our communities.

“This council is one that works better for residents, by responding to any issues and changing how we work for their benefit.

“I hope the new van and extra wardens offer reassurance that the council is taking the matter extremely seriously and we are doing more to tackle any hotspots.”

Ms Redfearn has been working closely with cabinet to address the matter.

Coun Carl Johnson, cabinet member for environment and transport, added: “To respond to residents’ concerns, the new wardens will have a particular focus on dealing with litter, dog fouling and fly-tipping.

“We know this is important to our residents and we will not tolerate it in our borough.

“Those caught risk fines and prosecution.”