Efforts to raise money to upgrade security cameras in a north-east town centre are starting to bear fruit.
The council approved a £60,000 grant to revamp the “ageing” CCTV network in Fraserburgh earlier this year.
But the port’s CCTV Working Group need to raise £10,000 themselves in order to unlock the funding to make the idea a reality. They have a year to reach that target.
If their efforts are successful, new dome-style cameras would be set up at five locations at Hanover Street, Charlotte Street, Deejays Night Club, the corner of Mid Street and Cross Street and the junction at Broad Street and Mid Street.
£60,000 funding boost from Aberdeenshire Council for CCTV in Fraserburgh
Town councillor Brian Topping is the chairman of the Fraserburgh CCTV Working Group and has been lobbying businesses to help with the costs.
>> Keep up to date with the latest news with The P&J newsletter
He said a number of companies and private individuals have approached them with donations or pledges to help with the new venture.
There was even a fundraising meal held at a local restaurant with all of the proceeds going towards the CCTV project.
Mr Topping insisted he will not be resting on his laurels as the group strives to improve the town centre for every business.
He said: “It has been tremendous. We are putting out a really strong appeal to people, those who have been tied up with Christmas.
“We know times are tight, but we really are seeking anyone who is considering giving a donation towards a worthwhile project.
“It will make people feel safer and I say to folk: ‘please come forward’.
“We still need money to come forward for the cameras and it is a final plea and we appreciate any pledges that have already been made.”
Mr Topping added that some of the upgrade work to the existing camera network would begin on Monday.
Ian Dyga’s newsagent on Broad Street, which has previously been raided by thieves, would be covered by the new security cameras.
He hopes other businesses can contribute to the project and make it a reality.
Mr Dyga said: “It would be a good thing to prevent crime and, hopefully, that would get people into the town centre.
“I think most of the businesses in the town would be on the same page.”
Members of the Banff and Buchan area committee approved £60,000 at a meeting in September.
As part of the funding agreement, which was accepted by the CCTV Group , they have a year to raise the required match funding and deliver the scheme.
