A NEW CCTV camera is set to be installed in Wanstead High Street to deter crime and anti-social behaviour in a vulnerable area.

Although there are two cameras monitoring activity at the south end of the high street, high street banks and the post office near the junction with Grosvenor Road remain exposed.

A series of cash in transit robberies took place in the area recently and the new camera, which will cost £28,000 to install, is intended to benefit local businesses by providing 24 hour surveillance.

CCTV manager for Redbridge Council, Robert James, presented the plans to the council's Wanstead and Snaresbrook area one committee meeting on Monday, and although all members agreed to the project, the cost will leave only £2,641 from the committee's £30,641 discretionary budget for other new schemes in 2006/07.

Cllr Alan Burgess said: "Securicor was turned over at least five times in the last two years, so it may be appropriate to write to all the banks to ask if they would like to contribute as it is in their best interest to have the camera.

"To take all the money from our funds is quite a hefty sweep and any assistance would be an advantage."

The existing CCTV cameras in Wanstead operate by way of a wireless receiver and transmitter in Gardener Close, however this transmitter is currently running at full capacity and must be upgraded for more cameras to be added.

A transmitter also needs to be added to the side wall of the Post Office to bounce the signal to the wireless receiver and transmitter in Gardener Close. This will require permission from the Post Office, and planning permission will be needed to erect a camera pole opposite the Post Office.

The committee gave the plan their full support and will explore the possibility of persuading local businesses to contribute funding.