Chamber welcomes CCTV promise
The Peninsula Chamber of Commerce has welcomed the announcement by Member for Robertson Mr Jim Lloyd that the Federal Government would allocate funds for closed circuit television (CCTV) in town centres on the Peninsula.
"This is great news for the business community," said chamber president Mr Matthew Wales.
"With both sides of politics promising funds for CCTV, at last the Peninsula business community can be confident of receiving security cameras no matter who wins the Federal election.
"Quite frankly, security cameras cannot come soon enough especially for main street locations like Umina Beach.
"CCTV security cameras will be valuable tools for the NSW Police Force in their efforts to target those who want to break the law by spreading graffiti, underage drinking, vandalism and anti-social behaviour.
"The police can't be everywhere.
"That's why the security cameras are so important."
The Chamber said it acknowledged that security cameras would not stop crime but would "certainly make it harder for those who want to break the law".
"Our business people are sick and tired of repairing damaged windows, cleaning up graffiti and putting up with anti-social behaviour," Mr Wales said.
"We are all looking forward to the day when our town centres are safer and more secure.
"We are expecting up to 30 security cameras which will be strategically placed throughout our commercial areas.
"These cameras will be linked to the Gosford CCTV system where the system will be monitored and maintained.
"With high definition equipment and the ability to move camera angles, the NSW Police and Gosford Council will be able to target offenders and reduce crime rates.
"It is also expected that several cameras will be installed at Umina Surf Club which has been a problem area over the last five years.
"Our volunteer life savers should be able to leave the surf club without fear that the building will be vandalised and damaged."
Press release, 23 Oct 2007
Matthew Wales, Peninsula Chamber of Commerce