WARRINGTON Borough Council has agreed a motion put forward by opposition Lib Dem councillors Sharon Harris and Judith Wheeler to protect public safety by keeping strong CCTV coverage and good street lighting across the town.
The motion asked the Council for clear information about CCTV cameras and street lighting, both now and in the future.
It also called for proper checks on how proposed changes could affect residents, especially women and those who may feel vulnerable. Councillors said that good lighting and visible CCTV help prevent crime, support the police, and make people feel safer, especially at night.
Speaking after the meeting, Cllr Sharon Harris said, “This is about making sure people feel safe in their own community. CCTV and street lighting are not extras. They are important for keeping people safe and helping prevent crime. We want to make sure any decisions on the future are made openly, with the right checks, and with input from residents and the police.
“Once safety is reduced, it is much harder to rebuild trust. That is why we must get this right.
“I welcome news that funding has been set aside to keep the CCTV control room open for now, and that new camera technology is being looked at.
As a result of the motion, the Council will now:
• Provide a full report on CCTV and street lighting
• Look at how changes could affect different groups
• Speak with residents, police, and community groups before making decisions
Councillor Wheeler added, “Many people use the town centre late at night and early in the morning. Life doesn’t end at 10 pm. People work in the night-time economy, so ensuring the town centre is safe is essential. For those who do not drive, decent street lighting, enabling people to feel safe walking home in the dark, is crucial to safety and well-being. We should feel safe whether at home, at work, or out in the community.”
