Crime Surge at Homeless Shelter Sparks CCTV Overhaul in Salisbury
Crime at Alabare Place, a homeless accommodation on Barnard Street, soared in Salisbury this spring and summer. From April to July, offences at the site made up 11.11% of all city centre crime — nearly double last year’s figures. Incidents ranged from anti-social behaviour to violence and drug dealing, flooding police resources.
‘Blind Spots’ Exposed in City Centre CCTV Coverage
Police and council teamwork uncovered major CCTV gaps around Barnard Street, Trinity Place, and Market Place. These blind spots allowed trouble to thrive unseen. To tackle the issue, Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson joined forces with Salisbury City Council to relocate two CCTV cameras and boost coverage in hot-spot areas.
“CCTV is crucial for identifying offenders and keeping our communities safe,” said Macpherson. “With darker nights coming, stronger surveillance is essential. I’m impressed by the neighbourhood team’s dedication to solving these problems and rolling out new measures to improve safety.”
CCTV Upgrade and Patrols to Crack Down on Crime
Inspector Pete Sparrow praised the camera upgrade: “Thanks to the PCC and city council, these cameras are now live, helping us spot offenders and tackle issues quickly. We identified high-demand zones where CCTV and other safety measures would make a real difference.”
Despite the new cameras, officers promise to step up visible patrols to deter criminals and reassure residents.
Richard Goodman, Salisbury City Council’s CCTV Manager, added: “By relocating existing cameras, we’re improving the system and supporting the community.”
Cllr Sven Hocking, Services Committee chair, welcomed the move: “Repositioning cameras especially near Trinity Street and 1 Lane junction, plus more local security, will significantly cut down anti-social behaviour.”
Salisbury CCTV Hits Two Years, Keeping Watch 24/7
The city’s CCTV team, based at Bourne Hill’s communications hub, monitors live feeds during key times to protect Salisbury residents. As crime hotspots are tackled with upgraded tech and boots on the ground, the council and police vow to keep the city centre safe and secure for all.
