Residents in Hornsey are not getting a fair deal when it comes to security improvements, says a local Lib Dem councillor. Robert Gorrie says that the lack of investment in the security in some of Haringey’s housing estates has resulted in a failure to get on top of anti-social behaviour on the Campsbourne estate, while other areas secure generous security spending.

Information uncovered by the Lib Dems shows the striking contrast between the investment in CCTV cameras in different areas. The Campsbourne estate has two CCTV cameras, one of which has been vandalised, compared to Broadwater Farm estate, which has 158 cameras representing an investment of £570,000. Lib Dems have criticised the Haringey Council’s uneven approach to funding and has called for more investment in areas like the Campsbourne, to improve resident safety.

Lib Dems acknowledge that the Campbourne is smaller than Broadwater Farm but over the last two years more anti-social behaviour incidents have been reported there than in Broadwater Farm.

Cllr Robert Gorrie (Hornsey) comments:

“Residents are committed to making the Campsbourne a successful and safer place to live. Unfortunately they have been let down by Haringey Council and Homes for Haringey. It is about time that their shallow enthusiasm for photo opportunities and vague expressions of concern at meetings is replaced by clear action and delivery.

“If the Campsbourne is a third the size of Broadwater Farm then how about the Council spending £200,000 on installing 50 CCTV cameras on the estate? That would be fair, and it might be a sign of real commitment to the residents.”

Cllr Ron Aitken, Lib Dem Crime spokesperson, adds:

“CCTV is not necessarily the solution to all crime or anti social behaviour issues but the stark comparison between the two estates does highlight the dreadful lack of resources the Labour Council has invested in addressing the issues on the Campsbourne.”