WORK has started on the installation of CCTV cameras in Frodsham.

One camera will be situated near to the Post Office in Main Street and two further cameras will be near to the Bear’s paw pub in Main Street.

The cameras to be installed are known as pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras and will provide coverage of most of Main Street, High Street, and part of Church Street.

The cameras are being installed following a request for CCTV by local ward members and Frodsham Town Council. A petition was also received that demonstrated a reasonable level of support for the proposal.

Cheshire West and Chester Council subsequently carried out the required assessment to confirm that the installation of CCTV in the locations indicated was justified.

The council is funding the provision and installation of the cameras and Frodsham Town Council has agreed to contribute towards the operation and maintenance of the cameras and the upgrade/replacement of the cameras when it becomes necessary.

Councillor Karen Shore, deputy leader and cabinet member for environment, highways and strategic transport said: “The main purpose of the cameras is to deter and detect crime and disorder/anti-social behaviour, to enhance community safety and to help reduce the fear of crime. Work began last week on the installation of columns for the cameras and is expected to be completed for the cameras to go live towards the end of February.

“The council has written to all residents in the immediate vicinity of the cameras to let them know new CCTV cameras will be installed and giving them the opportunity to raise any concerns.”

Jo O’Donoghue, clerk to Frodsham Town Council said: “With the aid of the CCTV cameras the police can both prevent crimes from happening and can quickly solve criminal cases with material evidence. The Town Council is delighted to support the town and local businesses in this way.”

Images from the CCTV cameras will be monitored by trained council staff in a specially designed monitoring suite at Chester. Images are recorded and are deleted after 31 days unless they are required for any reason, such as an investigation or prosecution.