NEW CCTV technology is on trial in Fordingbridge to help maintain low crime levels.

New Forest District Council (NFDC) has begun a trial of new CCTV camera technology in Fordingbridge. This forms part of the council’s commitment to maintaining low crime levels in rural communities.

Working in partnership with Fordingbridge Town Council, the camera has been installed in Fordingbridge High Street for a period of 4 weeks for testing.

The new 4G cameras produce high-definition images in colour and have integrated infra-red to enhance images at nighttime and in low light conditions.

During the trial period, the council will test the functionality of the cameras and the quality of the footage. The council says it will continue to engage with the local business community and residents to gain feedback.

Residents interested in learning more about the trial have been invited to attend an event hosted by New Forest District Council and Fordingbridge Town Council.

The event will be on Thursday, February 22 at 6pm in Fordingbridge Town Hall.

This will provide an opportunity for the council to share their findings about the project and answer any questions from residents and people from the local business community. 

Cllr Dan Poole, Portfolio Holder for Community, Safety and Wellbeing, said: "The trial of new CCTV camera technology in Fordingbridge marks a significant step forward in our efforts to continue maintaining a secure environment for our community, fostering a sense of confidence and wellbeing for all our residents.

"I’m delighted with how the trial is going so far and urge residents of the area to attend the community event on 22 February to find out more. I would like to thank Fordingbridge Town Council for their support with this vital project."

Fordingbridge was selected for the trial as it currently doesn’t have any CCTV cameras.

If the trial is successful, the council will look to expand the CCTV network across other areas of the district that do not currently have cameras, including Fawley, Brockenhurst and Bransgore.

The new camera roll-out over the next 2 years comes as part of the council’s continued commitment to supporting their communities by helping residents feel safe. The £300,000 investment into the expansion of the district’s CCTV network includes additional funding from the Home Office Safer Streets Fund with a focus on rural communities.