CCTV praised for slashing crime

Concerns were raised over large groups gathering in the stairwells of the St James flats, open drug use and littering.

Bill Hotchkiss, from Doncaster Council, said: “The problems at the estate were occurring on a nightly basis before these cameras were fitted.

“We are now in the positive position where we have seen a dramatic reduction in incidents and more importantly there has been no dispersal to other parts of the estate.”

The council is about to launch a survey to allow people to express their concerns about anti-social behaviour and say what changes they would like to see.

From January 20 people can comment at the council’s Civic Office One Stop Shop, Waterdale, on Tuesday February 4 from 9am to noon, and Monday February 17 from noon to 4pm, or by filling in the survey online at www.surveymonkey.com/s/commsafety2014. Mayor Ros Jones said: “Making Doncaster a safe place for all has always been and will continue to be one of my top priorities.”