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Security and safety in the port city: we're making changes, says CEO

THE City of Fremantle is serious about tackling security and safety concerns with several projects and strategies, worth about $500,000, now under way.

New lighting, worth $75,000, has been installed in the High Street Mall, Kings Square and Henderson Street Mall and car park (near the Pine Warehouse) while cabling is currently being laid for seven new CCTV cameras, worth $352,000.

Focusing on known “hotspots” in the Fremantle CBD, the CCTV cameras will be actively monitored by specially-trained staff and have a direct link to police.

Fremantle Police have introduced a new CBD patrol, providing a stronger presence, while rosters for the City’s community safety rangers have been extended, following on from the appointment of a community safety coordinator in late 2006.

Chief Executive Officer Graeme Mackenzie said the initiatives were a direct result of the City’s community safety and crime prevention plan adopted in April, highlighting the need for an integrated approach to security and safety issues.

“Fremantle remains one of WA’s most liveliest places with an almost 30 per cent increase in visitors in the past two years,” he said.

“With the introduction of Friday night trading on September 28 creating even more interest in people coming to Fremantle, we’re endeavouring to make sure it’s a safe, family-oriented environment that can be enjoyed by all.

“We should make it clear we’re not taking over any roles from the police but we’re aiming to give them as much support as we can, complementing the role they already play.

“The nature of policing is that they often have to react to illegal behaviour and these initiatives aim to prevent them before they happen.”

Mr Mackenzie highlighted improved taxi waiting times and the success of the Nightrider bus program as an example of effectively managing a problem of concern.

“I’m pleased to say we’ve made real in-roads in getting large numbers of people out of Fremantle late at night, which has seen a reduction in the level of anti-social behaviour,” he said.

“The move to increase our CCTV surveillance came about after extensive investigations into the impact of cameras on crime and anti-social behaviour in other places, such as Brisbane and the Gold Coast, where they have played a vital role in assisting police.

“These initiatives have been funded, in part, by night-time parking fees introduced last year, as the intention was always to make sure they delivered a community benefit.

“With new lighting, CCTV cameras and community safety appointments, the City of Fremantle has committed half a million dollars to address various security and safety concerns.

“We remain dedicated to ensuring Fremantle remains the vibrant place it’s become renowned for and will continue to make the necessary changes so it stays a safe, friendly location.”

Mr Mackenzie said other initiatives included safety through better urban design, such as improved street layouts, and more effective anti-graffiti and under-age drinking strategies.

The seven new CCTV cameras will be located on the corners of Queen and Adelaide Streets, Bannister and Market Streets, High and Henry Streets, Norfolk Street and Norfolk Lane, near the train station in Market Street, Kings Square (Queen Street perimeter) and the Market Street and Kings Square entrances to High Street Mall.