First cameras in the centre to be set up

– This is a way to increase security. If people think that there is greater security, it will hopefully attract more visitors to the centre, says Fredrik Billsten who works with security in Kristianstad municipality.

A camera is being put up at Bånken, on the side facing Stora Torg. The other one is being put up at the Regional Museum, on the side towards Sommaro.

As early as 2013, the municipality submitted an application for a permit for cameras to Länsstyrelsen (the County Administrative Board), who was responsible at the time. But the municipality’s application was rejected.

In 2018, the issue was raised again, this time in partnership with the police. The plan was for so-called security cameras to be set up. The municipality is responsible for the cost; the police are responsible for the surveillance and getting permission.

The law on camera surveillance has been made easier for the police. At least in regards to crime prevention. The police can now make decisions on setting up temporary cameras for 90 days.

It has taken a long time to set up the cameras. Various practical issues have emerged.

– It has been very complicated. Therefore, it will be now be nice to get the first cameras in place, says Fredrik Billsten.

The other five cameras will also be set up in the future.