TThe idea of installing closed circuit television cameras to aid the fight against rock throwing at Purfleet is gaining momentum after a Greater Taree City Council committee supported the proposal.

The community and works committee voted to seek funding to see the technology installed, with that decision to go before next Wednesday’s full council meeting for approval.

The proposal, put forward by deputy mayor Cr David West with a few minor changes to the one indicated before the meeting, was supported by the committee without objection.

It states ‘that in an attempt to facilitate the collection of evidence to prosecute the offenders involved in rock throwing in the vicinity of the Purfleet village, council as a matter of urgency make representations to the Roads and Traffic Authority and Premier’s Department to seek funding for the installation and operation of CCTV and appropriate supporting lighting to cover the area of Manning River Drive affected by the rock throwing.’

It also calls on the support of relevant State members of parliament to facilitate the action.

The council’s director of community development and health Wayne Deer brought a few matters to the attention of the committee relating to the proposal, including that CCTV often results in offenders covering their faces to avoid identification.

He also said the cameras themselves could become targets for rock throwers, adding that the need to increase lighting in the area may have an intrusive impact on neighbouring residents.

As well as supporting the camera idea, the committee is also seeking an update from council staff on the present situation of the wall that runs parallel to the road.