How effective are security cameras in preventing crime? Councillor seeks a city-wide review
A spate of vandalism incidents involving cars in the area around Stuart Park this year saw the installation (and subsequent removal) of security cameras.
As The Illawarra Flame reported, thousands of dollars' damage was caused by hoons creating deep ruts in the grassed area near the Stuart Park picnic huts.
At the time, Cr Andrew Anthony described the actions of those responsible as “selfish and reckless”, saying Council was spending money repairing the damaged area that could be better spent elsewhere.
Months later, despite Council’s repair efforts, the large grassed area is still recovering.
Cr Andrew Anthony points to the damage done earlier this year
Immediately after the incident, Council installed temporary security cameras that appeared to have the desired effect. There were no incidents while those cameras kept watch over the parkland.
Now the cameras have been removed, the hoons are back, regularly burning rubber, performing burnouts and donuts on the road surface between the Novotel and the Lagoon Restaurant. The noise is disturbing residents of North Wollongong and the tyres are leaving rubber scarring over several hundred metres of bitumen.
It’s prompted Neighbourhood Forum 5 (NF5) to ask Council to install permanent security cameras in the area of Stuart Park most frequently visited by the rev heads to “act as a deterrent to antisocial behaviour”.
“The revving and hooning in the Stuart Park area came to an abrupt stop” when the security cameras were installed temporarily, according to NF5’s October meeting agenda. “Since the camera was removed, the problems have returned.”
Neighbourhood Forum 5 (NF5) wants permanent security cameras in Stuart Park
Cr Anthony, who was outspoken when the vandalism occurred more than two months ago, wants more evidence to prove cameras are the answer.
“Council could undertake a review of the use of CCTV cameras across Wollongong,” Cr Anthony said. “I think it’s important to gauge the community’s view about its use and effectiveness.
“I’m open to considering CCTV installation in Stuart Park, particularly if there’s genuine evidence that it improves public safety.
“We currently monitor areas such as The Mall. We need to weigh up the costs of installation, maintenance and monitoring against the benefits.
“From the research I’ve seen, CCTV can be effective in certain settings such as car parks or targeted crime hot spots. However, its impact on reducing antisocial behaviour in open public spaces is often limited without active monitoring and a timely police response,” Cr Anthony said.
“Cameras alone don’t prevent incidents. They need to be a part of a broader strategy that includes visible policing, better urban design and improved lighting to help deter antisocial behaviour.”
On Monday night, Council will be discussing its citywide CCTV policy.
