DARTFORD CIVIC CENTRE CCTV

Dartford's CCTV system became operational in October 1996 with 21 cameras covering the Town Centre.

Within the first year of operation, the police reported a 33% reduction in crime.

Following a successful Home Office bid, the system has now been extended to include A226, Temple Hill and Alamein Gardens. All 44 cameras are pan, tilt and zoom and record 24 hours a day.

Those placed in residential areas have been adapted with privacy screening so that they are not able to look into people's windows.

Working closely with Kent County Constabulary, London Transport Police, Night Time Traders and Dartford's Retail Security Group, the aim is to reduce crime within the town centre and provide a safer environment for residents, visitors and traders.

Two more cameras will be installed in Hesketh Park in the next few months and the Council are working with the police on the deployment of a mobile camera to target problem areas.