Major CCTV upgrade approved by Raunds Town Council despite 'challenging financial backdrop'
A town council has approved a major upgrade to its CCTV system to help deter crime, protect the town centre and support the police.
Raunds town councillors have approved a major upgrade to the town's CCTV system, following feedback from local businesses, residents and Northamptonshire Police about the importance of enhancing the reliability and effectiveness of CCTV coverage in key areas of the town.
After detailed consideration, councillors agreed to proceed with a high-specification upgrade that will significantly improve image quality, reliability and coverage across existing locations.
The project will also deliver new CCTV coverage at Raunds Skate Park and Marshalls Road Car Park, responding to calls for improved security in those areas.
The council says this decision has been taken against a challenging financial backdrop, in addition to a significant funding imbalance across North Northamptonshire.
In the former East Northamptonshire area, town councils are expected to fund and operate CCTV themselves through the town council precept, but in the former Corby, Kettering and Wellingborough areas, residents receive this service as part of their core council provision.
The council says this results in residents of Raunds effectively paying twice for the same level of protection.
Cllr Ollie Curtis, chairman of the council's environment, leisure and recreation committee, said: "Effective CCTV is a critical public safety tool that helps deter crime, protect our town centre and give the police the evidence they need to act quickly and decisively.
"The town council has been very clear that, even in the face of tight budgets and an unfair funding system, Raunds cannot afford to fall behind when it comes to public safety.
"This upgrade is about standing up for our community and making sure the police have the support they need to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour in Raunds."
Installation of the upgraded system is expected to take place in February 2026.
Raunds Town Council has said it will continue to press for a fairer and more consistent approach to CCTV funding across North Northamptonshire.
But in the meantime, it says this investment demonstrates the town council's determination to act locally and decisively to protect residents, businesses and visitors.