CCTV at Grimsby bus stops to curb vandalism and anti-social behaviour

Stagecoach's managing director Matt Cranwell (centre) said security at bus stops was "critical" to help boost passenger numbers

Four CCTV cameras have been installed to tackle anti-social behaviour and vandalism at 11 bus stops in Grimsby.

North East Lincolnshire Council said it had received feedback from commuters saying they "didn't feel safe at bus stops" in the town centre.

It said cameras monitoring bus stops A to L at Riverhead Exchange would help "reduce security costs, prevent crime, vandalism and anti-social behaviour".

A bus operator said it was "critical" to help boost passenger numbers.

The authority said it took the initiative following its Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) survey, which resulted in the feedback.

Councillor Stewart Swinburn, portfolio holder for environment and transport, said: "It's great to see CCTV cameras being used to prevent anti-social behaviour at bus stops in the local town centre.

"We are sure that they will have a positive impact for local people and bus drivers by creating a greater sense of security and reassurance.

"I am looking forward to seeing the impact of the new CCTV cameras, which will hopefully prevent vandalism and anti-social behaviour in the Riverhead area."

The authority received £5.2m from the government to boost its bus services.

Matthew Cranwell, managing director at Stagecoach, said: "This is a big matter for our customers and staff, given the anti-social behaviour in the area.

"Security is always listed as one of the key drivers for customer satisfaction, and as a key interchange point this is critical to help with getting passenger numbers up."