Blueforce today announced plans for a community operated CCTV network in their local Tuart Hill business precinct, aimed at reducing anti-social behaviour in the area and providing WA Police with a useful resource to tackle crime.
The initiative has received funding from the Federal Government as part of the Safer Communities Fund, and has gained wide support from local businesses and community representatives, including Federal Member for Stirling Michael Keenan.
The idea for the project named ‘Bluewatch’ was first conceived by Blueforce Managing Director Dale Lofts, after speaking with local business operators about safety concerns in the area.
“A comprehensive multi-camera CCTV network like this is understandably beyond the budget of individual small businesses, so the funding we’ve received will alleviate this financial burden and ensure efficient coverage throughout the wider business area,” said Mr Lofts.
“Businesses generally prioritise internal cameras to protect staff and goods, and there is often less coverage of public spaces, which leaves people and property vulnerable to theft, harassment, and vandalism.
“Blueforce is one of few businesses in the precinct with external CCTV coverage and we often provide WA Police with high-quality CCTV footage of crimes and traffic incidents, so the extended network will be a fantastic resource for law enforcement.”
The public CCTV installation will provide coverage of shopfronts and public walkways along Wanneroo Road between Lawley Street and Cape Street, with its high-quality footage available to WA Police as needed.
Participating business operators will be able to use their smart devices to securely access real-time footage, and ‘Bluewatch’ signage will be displayed to deter criminal activity, notify the public of surveillance, and promote the initiative.
Mr Lofts announced the project alongside Mr Keenan this morning, at a community function held at Blueforce’s head office on Wanneroo Road, which will serve as the network’s head end and recording centre.
“Mr Lofts had approached several local businesses in the area that were all very keen to see a secure network installed that would help to deter potential criminals from offending, so I encouraged him to submit an application under the Safer Communities Fund,” Mr Keenan said.
“I commend Blueforce for their efforts to see this project implemented.
“This is a great example of local businesses working together to help create a safer community for all Stirling residents.”
Mr Lofts said he looked forward to collaborating with neighbouring businesses, with the hopes of establishing a regular meeting with stakeholders and other community representatives to discuss the project and broader community concerns.
“Should other businesses wish to get involved down the track, we’ve designed the network to enable additional camera integration, allowing future scaling of the network’s reach and capacity,” said Mr Lofts.
“This initiative will benefit businesses, residents, commuters, customers, and the wider public, and in increasing the security of the area, the precinct will continue to thrive and attract future investment.”
Mr Lofts is also keen to encourage other business precincts, councils and community networks to consider similar initiatives in their own localities.
“We are really looking forward to using our expertise and experience as a licensed security provider to give back to the wider community, both in our local Tuart Hill area and beyond.”
If you would like to know more about setting up a secure CCTV network in your local business district, please get in touch with the Blueforce team.
Blueforce
Media Contact: Liz Howard
Phone: 1300 731 716
Email: liz@blueforce.com.au
Michael Keenan MP
Media Contact: Jacqueline Byrde
Phone: (08) 9445 3222
