BATHURST Regional Council is a step closer to being able to install a closed-circuit television (CCTV) network after resolving to place its draft policy on display.
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A report regarding the policy was before councillors at Wednesday’s meeting.
It stated that council was working through a process to install cameras in the central business district, but before that could occur, it had to publicly display a policy outlining its obligations “in the use and management” of the CCTV scheme.
“The policy underpins the introduction, ongoing management and operation of CCTV within the CBD of Bathurst,” the report said.
“It outlines and reinforces the responsibilities of Bathurst Regional Council and the NSW Police.
“The policy aims to ensure the effective, appropriate and lawful use of CCTV.”
Council will not be monitoring the cameras, but rather use them to capture images that can be used to assist the police.
Police may intermittently view live images provided by the CCTV scheme.
At the meeting, councillors were vocal in their support of the scheme, saying residents had been waiting a long time for this security.
“I can’t tell you how happy I am. I think I am in my seventh year trying to get this done, so I am so happy to see it,” Cr Ian North said.
“Thank you for finally getting there seven long years later. I’ll be pleased to make sure this becomes an even safer city for people.”
Cr Alex Christian, who made a CCTV network for Bathurst one of his key platforms when running for council in 2017, said he was impressed with the speed at which the project was moving along.
He said he was aware that council had applied for state and federal government grants to help expand the size of the CCTV network and he would be watching very closely for the outcome of those applications.
Council has lodged an application for a grant of $805,000 under the Federal Government’s Safer Communities Fund, while it’s also applied for $250,000 from the NSW Community Safety Fund.
In speaking with the Western Advocate on Friday, Cr Christian said $1 million in grants could “cover the entirety of the CBD” with cameras.
He said other regional cities had received grants to install CCTV and it was Bathurst’s turn to be assisted.
“I would really like to see Bathurst now, as it has really lagged behind with CCTV, to get some funding,” he said.
Council opened its tender process for the first stage of the CCTV project earlier this month, which will include the supply and installation of 13 cameras.
Suitable companies have until November 6 to submit a tender.
