Muswellbrook Shire Council has installed additional CCTV cameras along Bridge Street, expanding surveillance across the town centre as part of its commitment to community safety and CBD improvements.
The new cameras provide extra coverage at two intersections on Bridge Street, at Brook Street and Hill Street, strengthening Council’s existing CCTV network along the main street. Council says the expanded network can help deter vandalism and antisocial behaviour, help identify incidents and support NSW Police investigations when required.
Muswellbrook Shire Mayor Jeff Drayton said the cameras were another positive step towards improving safety in the CBD.
“We want people to feel safe when they’re in our main street, whether they’re shopping, visiting local businesses or simply going about their day,” he said.
“Vandalism and antisocial behaviour affect our whole community, particularly our local businesses, and we want to do what we can to address these issues. It’s not just about installing cameras. We’re also improving lighting, footpaths and public spaces across the CBD so people feel safer and more comfortable spending time in our town centre.”
Council continues to work with Muswellbrook Police, including Inspector Todd Hobson of the Hunter Valley Police District, to address vandalism, property damage and other incidents in the town centre.
“Additional CCTV coverage is a valuable tool in helping police prevent, identify and investigate incidents of crime and antisocial behaviour,” Inspector Hobson said. “Having improved coverage across key areas of the CBD can assist police investigations and help us respond to issues affecting local businesses and the wider community.”
The installation forms part of a broader approach using Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design principles. Recent works include reconstruction of the laneway connecting Bridge Street and Muswellbrook Marketplace, with upgraded pavement, accessibility, landscaping and lighting, as well as footpath improvements between Muswellbrook Library and Hill Street and additional lighting around the library and Hunter Innovation Precinct.
Council says these works are complemented by Gather in the Glow events, the development of a Muswellbrook Town Centre Wayfinding Strategy, and the construction of Possum Park near the Muswellbrook Uniting Church, which is on track for completion in December 2026.
