Tavistock could get CCTV for first time under police plans

Devon and Cornwall Police have expressed interest in installing CCTV in Tavistock for the first time, in a move they say would improve local safety and help prevent crime.

The town currently has no CCTV coverage, but plans are being drawn up to change that. 

It is understood that both the police and local councils will be meeting in the next month to discuss the proposal and explore whether the project could be taken forward.

The force has told The Moorlander it would ideally like to see cameras installed within the next 12 months, with a target date set for summer 2026.

Potential locations under consideration include Bedford Square, The Meadows, Tavistock Industrial Estate, and along Plymouth Road near the local supermarkets.

Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant for West Devon, Thomas Ottley, told The Moorlander: “I believe that implementing CCTV in Tavistock will allow Police to work more effectively not only in detecting crime and anti-social behaviour, but more crucially help us to prevent it happening in the first place alongside our newly implemented PSPO. I am coordinating consultation involving key stakeholders such as the town and borough councils, Tavistock BID and the public who were overwhelmingly in favour of CCTV. Ultimately it will provide valuable evidence and deterrence relating to key Policing priorities such as Violence against women and girls, retail and business crime and anti-social behaviour.

“I am aware that there is a cost implication involved, however the Police and Crime Commissioner has indicated that she would be willing to support this initiative. The ongoing costs would be negligible in relation to the detection of retail crime which costs local businesses significant figures annually and increasing effectiveness of Police investigations by increasing the likelihood of identification of suspects.”

Tavistock Town Council told The Moorlander: "The Police locally have on occasion both objected to, and supported, town wide measures such as public spaces protection orders and CCTV.  Following communications from the Police about CCTV last year the Council requested supporting information, including how any scheme, if supported, might be developed, funded and managed. When it receives that information it will be in a position to consider and take an informed view on CCTV for the town, alongside other partners such as DCC, WDBC and Tavistock BID. The Town Council works closely with the Police and other statutory partners with responsibility for public safety and wellbeing across a range of issues, including most recently provision of emergency interview accommodation for victims of people trafficking."