SECURITY cameras could be installed on Oxford's Blackbird Leys estate by November.

Campaigners have been asking for the cameras, which can film though all 360 degrees at shops in Blackbird Leys Road and in Dunnock Way, Greater Leys.

The south east area committee is due to decide the planning application for the cameras next month and, if approved, they could be in by November.

Last night traders in Blackbird Leys Road welcomed the move, saying the cameras would make customers and staff feel safer.

Iga Ciesielska, of Lloyd’s Chemist, said: “We definitely need the CCTV outside the shop because of shoplifters.

“Outside the shop we have problems too with police chases and people running away. You don’t feel safe when it’s dark and you hear about drug dealers.

“Sometimes the police ask to look at our CCTV in the shop to see if they can see what has happened outside, but you can’t see much.”

Linda Edwards, manager of Nash’s Bakery, said people took drugs outside her shop.

She added: “We have to shut the door sometimes because the smell of whatever they are smoking fills the shop and it makes us feel quite ill and the customers comment.”

Delteys Supermarket owner Paul Whitman said: “Customers want to feel safer. When they see kids hanging around outside the front they are frightened to come past.”

Laura Wilson, deputy manager at Agnes Smith Advice Centre, added: “If the cameras get good vision along the row of shops people will feel safer.

“People do feel more threatened at night, especially those who live above the shops.”

Mark Ewens, manager of Spar in Dunnock Way, said cameras would be a godsend.

He added: “There have been lots of incidents these cameras could have helped with. We have bikes stolen every couple of weeks. It will be a great help.”

Oxford City Council’s south east area committee and Oxford Safer Communities Partnership will allocate £26,000 for the cameras.

Council spokesman Louisa Dean said: “A report is being prepared for councillors at the area committee, and it usually takes about six to eight weeks from planning permission being approved to them being fitted.”

Thames Valley Police Supt Andy Murray said: “We would welcome CCTV on Blackbird Leys. It’s an important tool in reassuring the public and improving community safety.”

Each camera will be linked to the city’s main CCTV station in St Aldate’s.

eallen@oxfordmail.co.uk