Three new spy cameras to extend Shrewsbury’s CCTV network could soon be installed in a bid to stamp out anti-social behaviour in the town.

The CCTV columns have been strategically chosen in response to problems with anti-social behaviour, crime and disorder.

Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council which has applied for planning permission for the cameras says that they will be black and have been designed to fit in with the street scene.

They have been earmarked for Frankwell, Longden Coleham and St Alkmund’s Place.

Bosses say the Frankwell camera will cover areas such as The Stew, Welsh Bridge and sections of the towpath.

It will also cover Mardol Gardens “which has seen a number of potential suicide attempts” and the area below Frankwell Footbridge which officials say is a “key area of anti-social behaviour”.

All the cameras will work via a microwave link from an existing camera which allows the best use of capital expenditure provided by the council and also means the least amount of work needing to be done on site as no ducting and cabling is required between the cameras.

A design and access statement which has been submitted with the planning applications says: “The columns and dome cameras will match the existing asset stock, which are designed to fit into the urban and historic environment within Shrewsbury.

“The sites were chosen following consultation with the CCTV Working Group where specific coverage is required following problems with anti-social behaviour, crime and disorder.

“The St Alkmund’s Place Site is located in the public highway at the end of Church Street adjacent the wall to St Alkmund’s Church.

“The camera should act as an aid to help protect the historic buildings in this area as various acts of vandalism have been experienced and this is a key link within the town centre and used as a short cut.”

By Russell Roberts