Cameras installed in Uppermill and Royton in a bid to further protect residents

CCTV cameras have been installed in Uppermill and Royton centres in a bid to further protect the safety of residents and visitors.

Permanent cameras have been introduced to Uppermill, adding extra security for the many events that take place in the village.

They will also help police to monitor the vibrant night time economy and have been funded by the Saddleworth and Lees District Executive.

It has also long been an ambition of the Royton District Executive to bring CCTV coverage to Royton in response to concerns from residents and businesses about safety and crime.

Advances in technology mean both district executives have now been able to afford the costs of introducing the equipment.

The cameras in Uppermill replace temporary deployable cameras which have been in operation on High Street since summer 2017.

There will also be an additional camera to ensure as much of the High Street as possible is covered and Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology provides an extra security measure.

Councillor Adrian Alexander, Chair of the Saddleworth and Lees District Executive, said: “Temporary cameras have been in operation on High Street since the summer and have been a great asset to the village centre.

“The introduction of permanent cameras is an investment to further protect the safety of our residents and visitors, something you really can’t put a price on.

“Whether it’s the Band Contest, the Whit Walks or Yanks weekend, events in Uppermill are world famous. For them to continue to be the very best occasions, the very best security is needed.

“Uppermill High Street is one of the most popular and vibrant places in Oldham. With increased footfall comes more need for security and we are meeting this need.”

Sergeant Neil Barker, Saddleworth Police Station, said: “The Greater Manchester Police Saddleworth and Lees Neighbourhood Team welcome the installation of permanent CCTV cameras, affording coverage of Uppermill High Street.  

“The location is a popular destination attracting many local residents and visitors to the area with footfall increasing significantly at weekends and evenings.

“Throughout the year events such as the Whit Friday Walks and Band Contest, the Yanks Weekend, Rushcart Festival, Santa Dash and Winter Wonderland to name but a few, can see visitors’ numbers swell dramatically, drawing crowds numbering in their thousands to the High Street.

“The addition of the CCTV system will assist in keeping the area safe for those frequenting Uppermill and will prove invaluable in the prevention and detection of anti-social behaviour, crime and disorder.

“I would like to take this opportunity to extend my personal thanks to the Saddleworth and Lees District Executive for their generosity in funding this project.”

The Royton District Executive has purchased three CCTV units that are now installed in key locations across the town centre.

They are working closely with Greater Manchester Police to ensure that crime hotspots are covered and systems are in place to maximise the use of footage.

Cllr James Larkin, Chair of Royton District Executive, said: “We are delighted that after months of work we have been able to deliver CCTV to the centre of Royton. This is part of a wider strategy to make sure Royton is a family friendly place to visit.

“This has been a hot topic when speaking to Roytoners, and myself and my colleagues are pleased to be able to deliver this. We will continue to work with the people of Royton, the police, local businesses and other partners to keep this a popular place for people to spend their leisure time.”