Glasgow nightspots wired up in new late night safety drive

Oct 28 2010 By Ben Spencer

cctv

A RADIO network linking late night venues to Glasgow's CCTV control centre has been launched to boost safety in the city.

The scheme offers venue stewards a hand-held radio to report anti-social behaviour directly to the CCTV control centre at Glasgow Community and Safety Services and Strathclyde Police.

Venues can also warn each other of potential issues before they unfold and call on CCTV controllers to monitor situations which they fear could lead to crime or disorder.

Pubs and clubs including the Garage, One Up, Campus and the G1 Group have already come on board to participate in the safety scheme.

Taxi marshals at the city centre Nite Zones will also be handed radios, as well as Glasgow Taxis, First Bus and the Street Pastors. The hope is that access to the digital radio network will ensure that the city is monitored right up until the last reveller makes their way home.

All pubs, clubs, late-night eating venues and hotels in the city centre have been invited to take part, and those who have signed up have undergone training on how to operate the new system.

Leader of Glasgow City Council Gordon Matheson said: "This new digital radio network demonstrates the commitment of the council, police and licensed trade to work together to enhance the city's safety provision."