The CCTV camera column on Wetherby Road in Harrogate has been reinstated after being completely destroyed in an accident last year.
A driver collided with the CCTV camera column near to the Empress roundabout which completely destroyed it. Something like this has never happened before, so it was hit with some force.
The impact not only knocked the column to the ground, ruining the column and destroying the camera itself, it also destroyed the fibres that connect it back to the CCTV control room.
After extensive negotiations with insurance companies Harrogate Borough Council was able to recover the full costs of the damage and the camera is now fully operational.
Julia Stack, the council’s Community Safety and CCTV Manager said:
This is a principal camera on one of the main routes in and out of Harrogate. CCTV Operators have missed not having this camera operational to monitor traffic flow, pass on messages to local radio stations and to also assist in the prevention and detection of crime.
As before, the new camera links back to the 24 hour CCTV control room, has infrared capability making it easier to see in the dark, and uses the latest technology in terms of image quality and manoeuvrability. So having been without the camera for many months we are delighted to have it back in use and just in time for the busy summer months and specifically the Great Yorkshire Show.
Working with Baydale Security Systems, Acorn Lighting and BT the installation has gone smoothly.
North Yorkshire County Council has access to some cameras to assist with their traffic management functions and Traffic Signal Engineer, Lee Boggon, added:
The camera is an integral part of the county council’s traffic management processes and the images from it give a good indication of the traffic progression along this very busy corridor. It has been sorely missed and its return is welcomed.
