Gosport Borough Council installs CCTV in Alver Village

AN OUTBREAK of nuisance behaviour has led to CCTV cameras being installed on a revamped housing estate.
Alver Village in Gosport   Picture: Sarah Standing (160364-3824)Alver Village in Gosport   Picture: Sarah Standing (160364-3824)
Alver Village in Gosport Picture: Sarah Standing (160364-3824)

The Alver Village, in Gosport, is part of the ‘Rowner Regeneration’ plan, a multimillion-pound project that is replacing substandard housing with new, modern homes. However, there have been concerns about anti-social behaviour from youths in recent months.

As reported by The News, First Bus temporarily pulled its 9 and 9A services from Howe Road during the summer due to children throwing stones at vehicles and putting passengers and staff at risk.

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Gosport Borough Council, through the emergency delegated powers of chief executive David Williams, has leased land from housing association First Wessex’s Ark Royal House for the purpose of community safety and crime reduction.

Although councillors were not consulted, board members at an economic development board meeting unanimously agreed that it was the right move on their behalf.

Councillor Tony Jessop, who represents Grange ward, hopes that it will prevent anti-social behaviour.

He said: ‘CCTV in the area gives the public confidence that they are being looked after and helps to deter any anti-social behaviour.

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‘If it doesn’t deter it then it will hopefully it will instead detect anti-social behaviour.

‘These things have always been part of the development plan.’

Cllr Mark Hook, leader of Gosport Borough Council, also welcomed the decision.

He said: ‘I am delighted that the chief executive used his powers because it is much needed in the area.

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‘We are aware of the problems in the area and they have been well documented.

‘It is just a handful of people creating problems and have to look after the safety of the people in the area.’

John Barker, director of assets and development at First Wessex, said: ‘First Wessex is committed to providing quality local homes in safe and thriving communities, so we’re really pleased that CCTV is being installed at Alver Village.

‘We hope that the CCTV will help residents feel safe and secure, whilst also acting as a deterrent to prevent anti-social behaviour and crime.’

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