St Leonards takes next step in street safety

A CITY of Greater Geelong initiative has achieved its next step in making a main arterial road in St Leonards a safer place thanks to Safe City Cameras.

The city believes the installation of three cameras along St Leonards’ Murradoc Road will aid crime prevention and act as a deterrent.

“The fact that the presence of cameras works to prevent damage to property and assets is key to supporting neighbourhood character, along with creating spaces where people want to spend time,” Cr Jim Mason said.

“We understand the importance of community and creating neighbourhoods that people love and are happy to be in.”

A $70,000 federal government investment through the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development supported the Safe City Cameras being installed in the Northern Bellarine township.

The city will also utilise the cameras’ capabilities in gathering insights related to traffic management and urban mobility.

The former Morrison Government’s investment in the St Leonards Streetscape Beautification project took stage two’s total expenses to $320,000, following previous stage one expenditures amounting to $428,000.

Other beautification works taking place on Murradoc Road include garden bed improvements, furnishings, street art installations and footpath enhancements.

Deputy mayor Trent Sullivan said CCTV installations will provide a valuable solution to community members in staying active and connected.

“The city’s Safe City Camera Network is more than cameras and crime prevention, it’s about building strong, cohesive, vibrant communities,” Cr Sullivan said.

“This type of smart technology is game-changing as it provides relevant data to inform future decision-making regarding use of key community spaces.

“Community safety is a key pillar in ensuring residents feel comfortable to interact in their community.”

The former Coalition government had previously installed Safe City Cameras in Bellarine towns including Barwon Heads and Ocean Grove, with Drysdale’s close to completion.