Big brother is watching you in Moldgreen and Netherton

Jun 12 2010 by Sam Casey, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

TEMPORARY CCTV cameras are being installed in Moldgreen and Netherton as part of a police operation to tackle low-level crime and antisocial behaviour.

From Monday, officers will be carrying out Operation Focus, a week-long project to target issues residents say need addressing.

Cameras will be positioned on Juniper Grove in Netherton and Church Lane, overlooking the park, in Moldgreen.

Community safety officer James Denton said: “It will help the police and council to monitor any issues which have been highlighted by the community.

“We have consulted with local residents to identify the issues that concern them and we will be actively addressing these over the course of the week.”

Operation Focus also involves Kirklees Council, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, Kirklees Neighbourhood Housing and other organisations.

Police will be targeting known offenders, the council’s environmental services department will clear eyesore spots and the fire service will fit smoke alarms.

Mr Denton added: “Operation Focus looks to address local issues affecting local people and is tailored to that specific community. We hope to send a message that crime and anti-social behaviour is unacceptable.”

Insp Adrian Waugh, of Huddersfield South Neighbourhood Policing Team, said Moldgreen residents were particularly concerned about antisocial behaviour and criminal damage.

He added: “If we know there is an issue, we can deal with it.”

There will be high visibility patrols throughout the week in both areas.