New radio links to combat crime

12:36pm Thursday 31st January 2008

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TRADERS in Calne could feel a lot safer in March as the town council launches a radio link scheme.

The council is to buy ten radios, which will be programmed for use by ground staff, the information centre, CCTV and police.

The scheme may also be rolled out to include traders if the demand is there. They have been invited to join it in exchange for £1 a day.

Deputy town clerk Daryl Saville-Brown said: "The two-way radio system will link all participants in the town to each other and will enable rapid dissemination of information on criminal activity throughout the area.

"It is also particularly useful for lone workers as each radio has a built-in panic button."

The radio scheme, already in place in Chippenham and Devizes, aims to reduce potential anti-social behaviour, crime and the fear of crime.

It has won the support of Gary Stevens, owner of G & S Jewellers in Phelps Parade, He said: "We have had no trouble here but it would be helpful to be able to warn other shops of suspicious looking people walking down the Parade.

"Depending on the cost I would definitely be accommodating of this idea."

Richard Snell, landlord of The Kings Arms, said he was in favour of the plans.

He said: "This scheme would mean everyone was connected and the remaining problems in Calne would be eradicated in the town centre.

"Right now I spend £200 on security at the weekend and would be happy to pay £7 a week for this system. It is a great idea."

But another shop owner, who did not wish to be named, said: "This is a brilliant idea, if it is free. But when do the council ever give anything away for free?"

The town council, chamber of commerce, North Wiltshire Community Safety Partnership and the Calne Neighbourhood Policing Team are working together on a town-wide business survey that aims to gather traders' views on their needs and the issues for concern.

Ms Saville-Brown said: "Of particular interest is identifying issues relating to community safety and criminal activity. This information will be used by the Neighbourhood Policing Team."

A police spokesman said they were fully supportive of the radio link initiative.

He added: "We believe it will assist in the initiative to tackle anti-social behaviour and crime and further progress the positive activities in the town. The development of this initiative has become a Neighbourhood Police Team priority."