BRADFORD Council has installed nine new CCTV cameras in Ilkley in order to improve community safety and reduce crime in the town.

Two additional cameras will be installed in the New Year bringing the total to eleven.

The new camera locations have been selected in cooperation with the police.

Bradford Council runs an extensive CCTV network across Bradford District and the system plays a significant role in reducing crime and antisocial behaviour and providing evidence to secure successful prosecutions when offenders break the law.

Early feedback from the police shows the new cameras are already acting as a deterrent in Ilkley with reductions in reports of antisocial behaviour.

The district-wide CCTV camera network is monitored 24 hours and day, seven days a week at a central location where operators cooperate with partners including the police in order to protect the public.

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, said: “When we started planning to renew our CCTV network I asked officers to look at extending it into Ilkley town centre and I’m pleased we’ve been able to deliver on our commitment.

“The expansion of the Council’s CCTV network into Ilkley should deliver significant improvements in crime reduction and it’s pleasing to see that they are already delivering results.”