Permanent CCTV to be installed at Co Antrim War Memorial

A permanent CCTV camera is to be positioned at Carrickfergus War Memorial, Mid and East Antrim councillors have been told.

The cenotaph has been the focus for vigilance following a series of vandalism attacks last year.

Last July, graffiti, including a swastika, was reported on the monument and was “continuing on a weekly basis”. No perpetrators have been identified.

PSNI figures show that anti-social behaviour in Mid and East Antrim increased by 20% during lockdown.

A report presented to councillors at a recent meeting of the local authority’s Direct Services Committee said that weekend patrols by a security company have been taking place and the Carrickfergus Neighbourhood Police Team has advised that it has not received any reports from the area during February following a series of “high visibility” patrols in Joymount.

However, councillors have been advised that the PSNI will continue to review the area for anti-social behaviour.

In addition, community safety wardens and Carrickfergus YMCA detached youth workers will “continue to focus” on the area, the report stated.

A council officer told the meeting that a “scoping exercise” would be taking place for the best position of a CCTV camera in Carrickfergus.

Commenting on the decision to erect CCTV permanently, East Antrim DUP said on social media:

“We are delighted to confirm that a new CCTV system has been secured for Carrickfergus Cenotaph and Memorial Gardens following a spate of anti-social behaviour and vandalism in recent months.

“A site meeting took place last week with the supplier of the CCTV system to discuss the details and ensure cameras are placed in appropriate places.”