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Security boost for County
Road businesses
A range of measures are being
introduced to make Walton a safer place for businesses and shoppers.
The 3 point security plan is being launched to make traders on County Road
more secure and ensure it is a desirable place to shop.
The work will see CCTV on the road using cameras previously used to monitor the
decommissioned bus lanes, and the installation of high powered security lights
in alleyways to deter thieves from entering the rear of businesses. In addition,
a 24 hour monitored alarm system; CountyCall; is being installed
at dozens of businesses, to tackle security concerns. It will give up to 200
retailers a link to a control room, monitored by local telecare provider VNC
Lifeline. An SOS facility will be discreetly fitted into the retail units, with
agreed protocols and code words established so that in the event of a burglary, VNC Lifeline will summon emergency assistance to the retailer,
via their Control
Centre, particularly benefiting those businesses associated with the night time
economy.
It is all part of work being spearheaded by the County Road Community Interest
Company (CiC) and the local Mary Portas High Street Innovation Fund which has
secured money to deliver improvements in the area.
Councillor Roy Gladden, Chair of the Mary Portas High Street Innovation Fund,
said:- "We're determined to make County Road one of the best shopping
districts in the city again.
The social impact of this project is huge in terms of acting as a deterrent for
criminals, reassuring retailers and shoppers and supporting our wider commitment
to the ongoing regeneration of North Liverpool."
Terry May, Chair of County Road CiC, who owns the bars Segura and Bernie May's
on County Road, added:- "Everyone should feel safe at work. There is a
sense of fear amongst staff, and we as business owners are responsible for their
wellbeing and protection, so we are delighted with the introduction of
CountyCall."
The project is being jointly funded through the Mayor's Neighbourhood Fund in
conjunction with County CIC, and has also attracted interest from other partner
organisations including Everton FC who are sponsoring part of the project within
their 'Blue Mile' initiative in the County Road area.
Using the slogan:- "Shopping Like It Should Be", the CIC has already
created a brand identity for the area, a newsletter for local businesses,
introduced hanging baskets and a series of arts projects including a spectacular
mural on the former Ethel Austin building created by street artist Whoam Irony.
For more information about:- 'CountyCall' go to the VNC Lifeline
website.
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