PCC invests in latest technology to help make Eastleigh town centre safer

18 new state-of-the-art CCTV cameras are being installed across Eastleigh town centre.

Work is underway following £50,000 funding from Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones.

She offered to pay for the new system last year because the old, outdated cameras were expensive to run and no longer fit for purpose.

The PCC said: “These cameras are crucial in making the town centre safer and act as a strong deterrent against anti-social behaviour, shoplifting and crime in general.

“Residents, businesses and visitors should be able to work, shop or have a night out without fear abuse, theft and intimidation and this modern technology is a means to deliver that.”

As part of the PCC’s commitment to ensuring people’s safety, she’s also announced additional funding for Eastleigh Business Improvement District.

“I am giving Eastleigh BID nearly £33,000 to replace 110 old and broken radios to support its Shop & Pub Watch scheme.*

“They’ll be used by restaurants, shops and pubs to alert fellow businesses, Neighbourhood Policing officers and BID Town Rangers of any issues surrounding anti-social behaviour, violence or medical emergencies.

“This collaborative work, and the ability to share information rapidly between one another, will play a key role in maintaining people’s safety.

“Alongside the new CCTV, the radios will make a big difference in preventing and deterring crime on the streets of Eastleigh.”

Rich Moody from Eastleigh BID said: “Eastleigh BID is extremely grateful to the Police and Crime Commissioner, Donna Jones.

“With this funding we are able to continue to deliver the highest level of trust and confidence that makes Eastleigh Town Centre, not only a safer place to work but also to visit, both during the retail hours and within the night-time economy.”

The CCTV cameras are being installed in locations chosen by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary to give better coverage of key areas.

Eastleigh District Commander, Chief Inspector Rachel Noble, said: “The cameras will help us use our resources more effectively, offer reassurance to visitors, act as a clear deterrent to anyone considering crime or antisocial behaviour, and strengthen our ability to detect incidents when they do occur.

“This project has been a great example of genuine partnership working to deliver safer streets for our community. Combined with the new radio funding, we are now in a much stronger position to tackle crime and antisocial behaviour across the town.”

Initially the CCTV will be run and maintained by Eastleigh Borough Council.

Ruth Davies from Eastleigh Town Council said: “This investment by the OPCC in modern technology will significantly enhance visibility across the Town Centre, helping to create a safer and more welcoming environment for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

“The system also provides important future-proofing, ensuring we are well-equipped to meet evolving community safety needs.

“We are especially pleased to see such strong partnership working behind this project, demonstrating what can be achieved when organisations collaborate for the benefit of the town.”

* The funding for Eastleigh BID came from the Hotspot Action Fund which is no longer open to applications.