A SOUTHAMPTON shopping area has seen its first security camera fitted to address residents’ crime fears.

Calls from community members and businesses to install a CCTV camera in Portswood’s shopping precinct have now been answered.

The £10,000 cost has been met by Southampton City Council, Southampton Businesses Against Crime (SoBAC), and a mix of housing organisations.

The majority of the funds to purchase and fit the camera was provided by Spectrum and Radian Housing Associations, as well as SoBAC, who worked with businesses in the area to ensure funding for the scheme was secured.

Cabinet member for health and community safety, councillor Dave Shields, said: “Ensuring the safety of those living and working in the city is one of the council’s key priorities.

“Joined up working between organisations in the city to make plans like this come to fruition is something to be applauded, and is a blueprint to copy for future projects.”

Head of SoBAC, Roy Russell, said: “After a lot of hard work it’s very satisfying to see the cameras finally up and running.

“They are a very real deterrent to criminals who may have targeted the area, and the local businesses, residents and shoppers in the high street will now feel a lot safer.”

The camera will cover from the corner of Brookvale Road to Sprinkles Gelato in a move that has also been welcomed by police.

The council said they didn’t want to specifically disclose the camera’s location.

PC Stephen Blandford, of Hampshire Constabulary, said: “This project represents how key organisations within the city are working together to improve the safety of people living and working in Southampton.

“CCTV is incredibly valuable in the prevention and detection of crime and we are hoping this new equipment will make the residents of Portswood and visitors to the High Street, feel safer.”

Ben Church, Citywatch Supervisor, said: “We are pleased to have successfully installed the system in Portswood which will bring many benefits to the local community and businesses, while enhancing the area for shoppers.

“Our experience and partnership approach enabled us to overcome a number of challenges through innovative solutions and great determination.”