CCTV cutback plan causes concern

A CCTV network could be cut back in a Lincolnshire town as part of plans to save money.

Boston Borough Council needs to save £2m and officials are looking at reducing the number of cameras or cutting the hours they are monitored.

The network costs £250,000 a year to run and the saving would safeguard other essential services, leaders said.

But some traders said the CCTV network was vital to keeping the town a safe place to work and shop.

Council leader Richard Austin insisted they would be listening to the public and other options would be considered.

'Causing trouble'

"We are keen to hear from people - whether they are prepared to put up with partial coverage," he said.

"One option is to only have the cameras manned at the peak times for catching those causing trouble.

"We have some hard decisions to make but we have no choice, we have to save money."

But some shopkeepers warned losing the CCTV would mean losing the radio link with the police which uses the same system.

Alan and Moira Ellis, who run a shop on the high street, said that would force them to close.

"I had three lads trying to smash my window the other Saturday," said Mrs Ellis.

"I have my radio and without that I dread to think what would have happened.

"And I don't think people would have the same peace of mind just walking around the town."