(Image: Liam Stephenson)
A non-functioning CCTV camera has sparked fresh calls for action following a weekend of serious antisocial behaviour.
Hartlepool MP Jonathan Brash is urging Hartlepool Borough Council to replace a long-promised camera overlooking Bishop Cuthbert Park.
The demand follows reports of large groups of youths gathering, criminal damage, and fireworks being thrown towards nearby homes and a care facility.
Mr Brash said: "I have had enough of excuses.
"Residents have been raising this for too long, the police are doing their bit, residents are doing their bit, developers are doing their bit and I have been pushing this repeatedly.
"And yet the council has still not replaced the CCTV."
Cleveland Police responded to the recent incidents with a 48-hour dispersal order covering the Bishop Cuthbert area.
A dispersal order came into force at 3pm today, Saturday, October 3, following reports of anti-social behaviour in and around Bishop Cuthbert Park. (Image: CLEVELAND POLICE)
Mr Brash believes a working camera would help identify offenders, support police investigations, and provide evidence for enforcement action.
He said: "How many more months of excuses will it take?
"How many more incidents?
"How much more damage?
"The council has already said CCTV is a priority for community safety and has invested in modernising its network.
"So there should be absolutely no excuse for a community like Bishop Cuthbert to be left waiting year after year."
He stressed that the issue is not political, but about public safety and visible consequences for offenders.
Mr Brash said: "This is not about party politics.
"It is about whether residents can feel safe in their own community and whether those responsible believe they will actually be caught.
"I want this camera replaced.
"I want action, not another meeting.
"And I will keep pushing until residents get it."
Resident Liam Stephenson, who has campaigned for the camera’s replacement, echoed the frustration.
He said: "Residents have been asking for this CCTV camera to be replaced for a long time.
"We have raised it repeatedly because we know how important it is to the safety of this community.
"People should not have to put up with vandalism, antisocial behaviour and the fear that comes with it.
"We want our children to be able to use the park and our families to feel safe in their own neighbourhood.
"We have been patient, we have attended meetings and we have kept raising the issue.
"But patience is running out.
"We need the camera replaced and we need it done properly and quickly."
Earlier this year, the council announced plans to modernise and expand its CCTV network, including new mobile cameras and ANPR technology.
Read More:
Mr Brash said the time for talk is over.
He said: "Residents don’t want another promise.
"They want the camera installed."