Major increase in number of CCTV cameras in Navan

An application for the extension of the Navan CCTV has now been submitted to An Garda Siochana for approval, local councillors were informed last week.

Meath County Council already has planning permission for 58 new CCTV cameras in Navan as part of the town's battle against crime and anti-social behaviour. Some have already been erected, awaiting Garda approval before switch on.

The extension to the CCTV scheme will see a tenfold increase in the number of cameras in the town.

The 58 additional units will cover an extensive area including Johnstown and the laneways in the centre of the town. Four of the new cameras will cover the Convent Road area where there have been increasing problems with anti social behaviour.

There will be cameras at the new park and ride facility at Moathill, Preston Lane, Cornmarket and adjacent to the Andy Brennan Park. Among the other new cameras will be units located at Johnstown Village, the Dan Shaw Road and Commons Road, Windtown Road, Kilcarn Bridge and St Columba's Crescent.

The new cameras will be mounted on steel pole structures measuring between 7.3 metres and 10 metres in height. There are currently six in operation in the centre of the town.

The Mayor of Navan, Cllr Eddie Fennessy, welcomed the news that the application has finally been sent to an Garda Síochána for approval.

“Studies show that where CCTV is introduced crime levels fall dramatically. Crime levels in Navan reached record levels over the past few years. We need this scheme delivered as quickly as possible.

“When installed, Gardaí will have a better means of combating crime in Navan. The identification and prosecution of those who prey on innocent victims and local businesses will be much easier and more effective. Communities across Navan will welcome this news and I’m sure I speak on their behalf when I encourage the Gardaí to approve the scheme immediately,” he said.