Local Lib Dem Activists Campaign for CCTV at Broadstone Library

6.00.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Sat 16th Apr 2005

CCTV cameras can be an effective deterrant to anti-social behaviour

Cllr. Mike Brooke, together with local Lib Dem supporters, collected over 200 signatures from members of the public on Broadstone's Broadway calling for CCTV cameras to be installed outside Broadstone Library where many instances of anti-social behaviour by local youths have been recorded in recent months.

Staff at the library have been intimidated by the presence of young people hanging around and very concerned about the recent spate of graffiti and vandalism outside the library and doctor's surgery. Many individuals signing the petition acknowledged that vandalism and intimidation was a serious issue for them when using the library or visiting the doctor.

While CCTV is not a panacea, it can be an effective deterrant to the problem of anti-social behaviour, combined with more police presence and community wardens.

Cllr. Mike Brooke said: "It is illogical that the Borough of Poole is prepared to pay for the repairs and to clean up graffiti, but not invest in a preventative measure such as CCTV. The Council after all does have over £4million in its reserves."

Local homebeat officer for Broadstone, PC Nick Wyer said that the number of incidents had declined since he had spoken directly to some of the young people involved and their parents.