A COUNTYWIDE CCTV system that will feature seven cameras in Kendal is set to launch today.

The new system will see 53 cameras operating across Kendal, Penrith, Barrow, Carlisle,Workington and Whitehaven with the potential to extend if required.

Cumbria's Police and Crime Commissioner Richard Rhodes commissioned the project in conjunction with the six local district councils and it has been implemented by Cumbria Constabulary.

The system will be monitored by a dedicated team within the communications centre at police headquarters in Penrith. The contract is worth £2.5million over the next seven years.

Police and Crime Commissioner, Richard Rhodes said: “I am delighted that the CCTV scheme has now been launched. This is an exciting first for Cumbria. This is an excellent example of how collaboration within the county can work well across the public sector led by the Office of the Police and Commissioner and in conjunction with the Constabulary and the six local district councils.

“In every sense this is an innovative scheme and is the first of its type in the country.

“CCTV will play a vital role in delivering a safe and secure environment for people who live, work and visit Cumbria. At the same time CCTV will help in reducing anti-social behaviour, crime and disorder as well as providing proactive support for the business community.

"When I came into office in November 2012 there was the real prospect of all the CCTV cameras in the major urban areas across the county being switched off. Today, we have a state-of-the-art system which will be supported for the next seven years.”

Cumbria Constabulary, Chief Constable Jerry Graham said: “CCTV is one of a number of important tools we can use to help solve crime and keep our local communities safe.

"The new system will provide consistent and improved CCTV coverage across Cumbria. CCTV acts as a deterrent for would-be criminals, helps track offenders, and gather evidence.

“The number and location of cameras throughout Cumbria was decided following analysis of incidents dealt with by police, consultation with neighbourhood policing teams and the funding opportunities provided by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner, district councils, and Cumbria Constabulary."

The CCTV cameras in Kendal are at the following locations: Kendal: McDonalds; New Road; Oxfam, Highgate/Allhallows Lane; Kendal Goldsmiths; Sandes Avenue/A6; Relish Deli, Market Place; Stramongate/A6.