NEW high-tech cameras will be installed across Southend as part of a £2.2million drive to help crack down on crime.

Southend Council has revealed plans for 40 new cameras across the town, including Leigh.

It comes after Luke Bellfield, 18, was stabbed to death on Friday, February 26 in Old Leigh.

The council revealed two temporary CCTV cameras have been installed at Bell Wharf and the bottom of Belton Bridge, Leigh.

In addition, a new frontline security base for community safety officers will open at Leigh Heritage Centre.

Cutting edge technology will be added to cameras across the town in an effort to crack down on crime.

Martin Terry, councillor for community safety and customer contact, said: “This work includes adding to our network of 165 cameras with the installation of over 40 new cameras in areas highlighted through public consultation as potential hot spots.

“It will also include the replacement of our existing cameras with new digital CCTV that can zoom further, pan wider and produce images of a higher resolution.

“I am pleased to see this work progressing to ensure we enhance our CCTV coverage, which plays a variety of vital roles, including crime prevention and detection, supporting Essex Police in their criminal investigations.”

But businesses bosses say the move is not enough to make people feel safe.

James Vessey-Miller, 24, manager of the Railway Hotel, in Clifftown Road, Southend said it will not make people feel safer.

He said: “People think the obvious answer is the cameras but I’ve been saying for years it’s worthless unless it’s recorded and monitored.

“We can have television broadcast CCTV cameras on every street but it is meaningless if it is not checked correctly and we need to see investment here. We also need to see enough police resources to get the footage and investigate.”

It comes after figures revealed 2002 crimes were reported in Southend in January, of which 692 were anti-social behaviour, while 642 were violent or sexual offences.

Mr Vessey-Miller added: “Cameras will not stop incidents or stop people carrying knives. We need to tackle the deep rooted issue and proactive not reactive.”