A NEW push to get controversial closed circuit TV security cameras installed in a town centre has been launched by councillors.

The scheme in Nelson would be smaller than the original project rejected by the council's Liberal administration two years ago, but councillors hope it can be extended as cash becomes available in the future.

Pendle Council Nelson area committee, which is Labour-controlled, agreed to bid for £12,000 of council cash to cover the initial monitoring of the proposed CCTV scheme and asked for an application to be made for supporting Home Office money.

The bid will be discussed as part of the council's overall budget-making process for the coming financial year beginning in April.

Committee chairman Councillor Colin Waite said: "The scheme is smaller than the one envisaged some years ago.

"We have a chance for the implementation of a small CCTV system in Nelson.

"It will boost the idea of regeneration of the town centre."

Colleague Azhar Ali added: "This would be a start and maybe stage one in the development.

"If we are looking at boosting the investment in Nelson as a shopping centre CCTV is an integral part of that to act as a catalyst to bring people in. It can only be good for Nelson."

Liberal councillor Razza Hussain also added his support even though two years ago he was against the cameras because of worries about invading people's privacy.

"Over the last couple of years I've had a change of mind," he said. "Anything that will improve Nelson town centre and the safety of its residents I would support."

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