A new, state-of-the-art, CCTV camera has been installed in St Botolph’s Priory in Colchester city centre, continuing efforts to further reduce antisocial behaviour (ASB) in the city.
St Botolph’s Priory, which dates to around 1100 AD, is believed to be the first Augustinian priory in England. Recently, however, the historic site has become a hideaway for street drinkers and those engaging in antisocial behaviour. To address this, an advanced pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) camera has been installed, providing 360-degree views and high-definition zoom capabilities. These cameras will enable closer monitoring of the area, helping the Neighbourhood Warden prevent such activities.
This installation was made possible through funding from the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (PFCC), following a successful application by Colchester City Council's Community Safety Team. The council’s commercial arm, Colchester Amphora Trading, managed the installation and delivery, utilising previous deployments of CCTV and ultrafast broadband network across the city. The generosity of St Botolph’s Church is also greatly appreciated, as it has allowed cameras to be mounted directly onto the more modern part of the building, whilst being painted to blend in with the exterior.
Cllr Natalie Sommers, Portfolio Holder for Communities, Heritage, and Public Protection said: “Once again, I’d like to thank the PFCC for their funding to help us reduce ASB in Colchester. Without it, tackling this problem would be very difficult indeed.
“The installation of CCTV in St Botolph’s Priory will help the council’s Neighbourhood Wardens in targeting their patrols, moving on street drinkers, and stopping ASB before it begins. Our residents’ safety is of the utmost importance to us, and the additional camera really does help.
“Collaboration with partners to achieve our shared goals will always be a top priority, ensuring Colchester continues to be a safe and welcoming place to live, work and visit for all.”
Patrols will continue throughout the city, carried out by our Neighbourhood Wardens, Essex Police and Titan Security, assisted by CCTV throughout the city. If you experience any antisocial behaviour, you can report it online here or contact the Police on 999 for emergencies, or 101 for non-emergencies.
The PFCC is asking the public for their policing and community safety views to identify public appetite in maintaining the current strength and ability of Essex Police and Essex County Fire & Rescue Service, helping to keep communities safe. You can complete the five-minute survey here. This is your chance to have your say, with your views feeding into the Essex Police and Essex County Fire & Rescue funding process for the financial year 2025/26.
Page last reviewed: 6 November 2024