Installation of CCTV cameras to protect Chester’s historic Rows to start

Works to install additional CCTV cameras to provide extended coverage of Chester’s historic rows is set to start this month following a successful planning application.

Cheshire West and Chester Council has commissioned the installation of 10 new CCTV cameras to be added to the Rows on Northgate Street, Eastgate Street, Bridge Street and Watergate Street.

The project has been made possible with support from Cheshire West and Chester Community Safety Partnership, the Council’s Housing Team, Aberdeen Standard Investments and CH1Chester BID,

The Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Environment, Highways and Strategic Transport, Councillor Karen Shore said: “The CCTV cameras will be used for the benefit of residents, local businesses and visitors, by helping to deter and detect crime and public disorder. The cameras will also contribute to the city’s Purple Flag Status.

“Using CCTV allows resources to be deployed effectively and promptly in response to unfolding events.  The extended coverage will also help protect the timber structures of the Rows from damage.”

The camera locations have been chosen to provide coverage of areas where individuals and groups choose to congregate and engage in anti-social behaviour. Images from the cameras will be relayed using a secure network to the Council’s CCTV control centre in Chester. The cameras are an extension to the Council’s existing CCTV system. The installation work is not expected to cause any disruption for local businesses or residents.