CCTV sought after walkers in Mayo town feel 'unnerved' at bridge location

Mayo County Council has been urged to put in place new CCTV under a bridge in Castlebar that has become an “unnerving” location for walkers.

Councillors were told at last week's municipal district meeting that there are currently five CCTV cameras in Castlebar that are in the ownership of Mayo County Council with the remainder under Garda ownership.

There cameras around Lough Lannagh are currently being upgraded with works expected to be completed by the end of the week. This work has been funded through the GMA.

There is also a priced proposal to provide a camera near the new underpass, for which GMA funding was also allocated.

“I’ve put a pause on this work pending discussions with the Gardaí around applying for funding under the Community CCTV Grant Aid Scheme to fund this and potentially other cameras around the town," Head of Castlebar Municipal District, David Mellett, informed councillors. "A meeting is planned for September with the local Gardaí, the Superintendent Mayo South, the Gardaí Telecoms Inspector, the contractor and ourselves to discuss all the plans and procedures required."

Cathaoirleach Cllr Donna Sheridan called on the council to put in place CCTV under the bridge on the Lough Lannagh walkway.

She said the location has become a prime location for outdoor drinking and a lack of Garda patrols is making it feel unsafe for women and walkers.

“It’s very unnerving. Get a camera down there. It does not feel safe," she remarked.