CCTV cameras could soon be installed in Eldene shopping centre in a bid to crack down on anti-social behaviour which is on the increase.

Groups of youths gathering around the shopping centre have been intimidating local residents and there have been a spate of attacks in recent weeks.

The area was due to receive £28,000 of funding for the cameras a year ago but the campaign was spearheaded by then ward councillor Pete Brown (Lab, Dorcan) who was not re-elected last year.

Plans then fell by the wayside and the money was not used for CCTV.

Councillor David Wren (Lab, Dorcan), who was elected last year, said he has not actively pursued plans for CCTV up until now because the trouble seemed to lessen.

But in the past week, a postman was attacked as he collected post from the box in the shopping centre.

The Post Office has since sealed the box because it fears for the safety of its staff.

Last year, fireworks were put into the box and Post Office officials temporarily closed it.

Coun Wren this week met with the Eldene Community Association to discuss the installation of CCTV in the area.

He said: "CCTV has been successful in other parts of the town in reducing anti-social behaviour.

"Unfortunately, Eldene is currently suffering with a few mindless thugs who hopefully will be caught and dealt with by police.

"I would urge any local resident to contact the police if they feel intimidated or threatened in any way by groups of individuals who are acting in an anti-social manner."

Three cameras are planned to be installed two within the shopping centre and one at the back of the Co-op supermarket. It has not yet been decided when the cameras will be put in as funds need to be finalised.

Christine Soakell, manager of the Eldene Community Centre, said: "I would definitely welcome the installation of CCTV in the centre.

"We have had so much trouble with kids over the years. A camera might deter them.

"I don't know what it is you can offer kids nowadays to keep them safely occupied.

"We used to open up one of our rooms here to allow them a place to come and socialise.

"But all they did was trash it and bring in drink."

The centre used to be open to members of the public at any time but it has since had to lock its doors throughout the day and operate a buzzer entry system.

CCTV has been fitted in a number of places across town in the past year.

In May 2003, Penhill residents welcomed the installation of cameras at the Hannington Close shopping parade.

Paul Cook, crime prevention officer for Swindon police, said: "CCTV has proved to increase personal safety and reduce crime and the fear of crime."

Emma-Kate Lidbury