IN an effort to minimise crime, closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras have been installed around the Merriwa CBD.
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Funding for the project came from a $16,200 grant through Round 2 of the Australian Government's Safer Communities Fund.
Several cameras have been installed, some fixed and some that pan, tilt and zoom to automatically follow activity.
The images will be made available to the police as required and signage advises the cameras are in place.
Upper Hunter Shire Mayor Wayne Bedggood said the CCTV pilot project could make a big difference to Merriwa and other regional towns.
"This is something the Merriwa Progress Association and the community of Merriwa had been requesting and is strongly supported by the Local Area Command and the Youth Services," he said.
The installation of the CCTV cameras is a pilot project undertaken by Upper Hunter Shire Council, which if successful, could be rolled out to neighbouring towns.
Member for New England Barnaby Joyce said the Coalition Government's Safer Communities Fund is helping to provide peace of mind for local residents.
"It is important people feel safe in their community and people in Merriwa and across the Upper Hunter New England deserve that right just as much as anyone else," Mr Joyce said.
"That's why we've secured $16,200 to install CCTV cameras and additional lighting in the Merriwa central business district to improve the safety of pedestrians and business operators."
