Closed circuit TV is to be installed in a North Weald hostel for the homeless following a series of security alerts.

The £5,000 system was recommended for Norway House after what local council officers called 'recent incidents.'

Epping Forest housing committee was told on Tuesday that property belonging to residents and the council had been stolen or damaged.

Head of housing Alan Hall said in a report: "At any one time there could be up to 40 families living in the hostel. It's important that the council takes all reasonable steps to protect those in residence and staff called out at very unsociable hours to deal with problems such as disputes.

"CCTV would act as a considerable deterrent to any residents who could be tempted to act irresponsibly or to perpetrate violence."

Councillors were told that resources did not allow staff to be on duty at Norway House 24 hours a day, although there was a standby service.

Mr Hall suggested the council bought six cameras to be placed at strategic positions inside and outside the hostel to ensure as wide as possible coverage.

Initial reservations about siting cameras in what was, in effect, home to the Norway House families had been overcome. Residents were consulted and no unfavourable comments were received. Indeed, said Mr Hall, a number of them supported the idea.

The committee was recommended to approve the installation in the current financial year.

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