New CCTV cameras have been installed at Oxford’s historic Covered Market.

This is the first time the council has funded and operated a whole suite of cameras at the market, as previously there have only been CCTV cameras installed by traders in individual units.

A total of 29 CCTV cameras have been fitted to the interior and exterior of the market, at an estimated cost of £60,000.

The council has installed the cameras in response to concerns raised by traders about security measures.

The move will please businesses like Pershore Seafoods, which suffered a break-in in 2019, when thieves stole hundreds of pounds worth of fish.

Oxford Mail:

Manager Maciej Lach arrived at the stall to find thieves had broken his kitchen door, stolen £350 worth of fish, and an unknown amount of money and his laptop.

At the time he called for more CCTV cameras throughout the market.

Read again: Fishmonger calls for more security at market

Signs will go up at the market about the CCTV.

Oxford Mail:

The council is investing in the long-term success of the market, and has been developing a ‘master plan’ to set out proposals for a multi-million pound regeneration of the market.

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The regeneration will respect the unique character, heritage and history of the attraction, which first opened in 1774 and is Grade II-listed.

Future intended plans include progressing a trial of later opening hours at the market, and traders will be encouraged to join in.

Separately, the council is investing £3.1m in the market to secure its long-term future. 

The investment includes £1.8m to secure the roof for another 60 to 80 years, and £1.3m for internal refurbishment and decorations.

Imogen Thomas, cabinet member responsible for City Centre Action Plan delivery at Oxford City Council, said: "We are committed to working with traders to secure the long term future of one of the city’s most prized historic assets.

Oxford Mail:

“We greatly value all our traders and take the feedback they give us very seriously.

“We have listened carefully to traders’ concerns about security at the market and have made a significant investment to help protect both people and the venue.

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“The council is continuing to support the market to be a thriving part of the city centre during the day and also explore its potential as an evening destination as well.”

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This story was written by Andy Ffrench, he joined the team more than 20 years ago and now covers community news across Oxfordshire.

Get in touch with him by emailing: Andy.ffrench@newsquest.co.uk

Follow him on Twitter @OxMailAndyF