Battery of 24 new CCTV cameras to monitor two of Wigan's busiest roads

The additional cameras, along Standishgate and Wigan Lane, will extend the coverage already in place from the town centre to Wigan Infirmary where they will also provide CCTV monitoring outside the hospital grounds.

In total, 24 CCTV cameras will be installed in the latest scheme.

They will be a combination of both static cameras and those with the ability to tilt and pan over wide areas and footage will be monitored by staff in the council’s central watch CCTV room.

Coun Kevin Anderson, cabinet member for police, crime and civil contingencies at Wigan Council, said: “Our community safety teams have listened to residents and ward members who have told us how important extra CCTV coverage in this area is to them.

“Not only will this help to deter anti-social behaviour but it will provide clear evidence for enforcement when needed.

“It will also offer extra support to the hospital management who have told us how important additional coverage is in helping them

to keep vulnerable patients safe.”

Installation of the 24 CCTV cameras is expected to take around six to eight weeks at a cost of £45,000. The funds will come from the council’s recently announced Recovery Fund.

David Evans, director of estates and facilities at WWL, said: “With the safety and security of our patients, staff and the public being of the utmost importance, we welcome the input of additional security CCTV around the hospital.

“The additional support from Wigan Council’s central watch will not only help us with the safety of our must vulnerable patients, it will also provide us with evidence for the prevention and detection of crime.”

Ward councillor Lawrence Hunt added: “I have been working with local residents and businesses for some time now about the ongoing problems on Wigan Lane and for the implementation of CCTV cameras.

“I am delighted that the cameras are to be put in place.

“We hope that they will help us to deter and detect crime and anti-social behaviour in and around the area.”

Anyone who notices suspicious activity in the area should call Greater Manchester Police on 101. If you see a crime taking place you should call 999 immediately.

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