Colchester shops hope CCTV will help with anti-social behaviour

A new CCTV camera has been installed at St Botolph’s Priory in Colchester city centre.

St Botolph’s Priory, which dates to around 1100 AD, has become a frequent spot for street drinkers and those engaging in antisocial activities, according to the council.

To tackle this, a pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) camera has been installed, offering 360-degree views and high-definition zoom with a neighbourhood warden observing the area in a bid to deter such activities.

Funded by the Police, Fire, and Crime Commissioner (PFCC), the new surveillance initiative aims to make Colchester’s city centre safer for residents, businesses, and visitors.

Tarun Reddy, of JD Stores, said: “Yes, we have had a lot of issues with drunk people on the street, fighting late at night.

Tarun Reddy- JD Stores (Image: NQ Reporter) "We also have cameras inside the shop, but one month back we had a major issue with a young lad using a stolen card to pay for something late at night, and then the cops came in almost a week later and nothing came of it.

"Shoplifting is also a regular issue we face, so I am glad with this new modified camera system.”

Relu Ionescu, owner of Queen Street Continental Supermarket, added: “We can't really call the police over one bottle of wine stolen.

"But it causes us a lot of issues. And with young kids, we don’t know what to say to them. They come in and run sometimes but it’s not worth the chase.

Relu Ionesco - Queen Street Continental Supermarket (Image: NQ Reporter) "The street fights on Saturday nights particularly are very bad. So it’s good to have these street cameras. Maybe it will help to reduce this type of thing.”

Neighbourhood wardens, Essex Police, and Titan Security will continue routine patrols around St Botolph’s Priory and other locations, with additional support from the CCTV network.

Colchester residents are encouraged to report any antisocial behaviour, either online or through emergency contact numbers.