Peter WalshThe Norwich Lanes could soon be a safer place to work and visit after bosses of the historic shopping quarter were awarded more than �30,000 to install crime busting CCTV cameras in the area.Peter Walsh

The Norwich Lanes could soon be a safer place to work and visit after bosses of the historic shopping quarter were awarded more than �30,000 to install crime busting CCTV cameras in the area.

Roger Pemberton, chairman of the Norwich Lanes Traders' Association has applied for permission to install antennae on two buildings in the city, the old library flat on Guildhall Hill and City Hall, which will enable three cameras to police the shopping area.

The application to Norwich City Council comes after the association was awarded a Home Office grant of �33,000 aimed at improving security in towns and cities throughout the country.

Mr Pemberton said: 'We were made aware there was Home Office money available to improve security in city centre locations and we felt there were two or three areas where we could've done with CCTV coverage.'

It is hoped the cameras, which will be sited on Dove Street, Pottergate, and St Gregory's Alley, will help improve safety for everyone in the area by helping to tackle anti-social behaviour and other problems related to drink or drugs.

Mr Pemberton said: 'Dove Street is right opposite a lap dancing club and is an area where late night people are going to be coming out in different states; Pottergate is an area that's not particularly well lit and would benefit from having some additional security, and St Gregory's Alley is an area that can be frequented by those that should not be there.'

Julian Foster, chairman of the Central Norwich Citizens Forum, said he supported the scheme as it would help make traders and visitors alike feel safer.

He said: 'So far as my forum is concerned we entirely approve of it. There's always objectors to the installation of additional cameras whenever it's suggested, but the vast majority of residents and visitors to Norwich will be in favour of having as much CCTV as possible.

'It makes them feel reassured and safe that they are being watched over and that everything is being carefully monitored. We would approve of that. I'm glad to see the Lanes traders have decided to go ahead with the proposal. It will improve the whole area for traders and residents alike.'

The Norwich Lanes Traders' Association was set up in September 2005 and is made up of independent business people based in the lanes area of Norwich.

It works hard to raise awareness of the independent shopping and leisure district that has developed over the last few years within and around Norwich's historic lanes. In 2007 the group produced the first map of the lanes which showed the abundance of leisure and shopping that could be enjoyed in the area, and has also developed a website which promotes the district.

The Norwich Lanes website can be found at www.norwichlanes.co.uk

Are you doing something positive to make your neighbourhood safer? Call reporter Peter Walsh on 01603 772436 or email peter.walsh@archant.co.uk