ALMOST half a million pounds is to be used to attempt to improve security for residents, shoppers and visitors in the centre of Grays, prompting Thurrock Council's leader to pledge a flourishing night-time economy for the town.

Following a successful bid for government funds by the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex and Thurrock Council the Safer Streets Fund has offered £432,000 for safety measures including cameras to be put in place and the grant has now been rubber-stamped by the Home Office.

CCTV capability will be increased in and around Grays High Street and and there will be improved street lighting in areas where criminals operate covertly due to the lack of light within the street.

The fund will also be used to increase the capacity of the council's Environmental Enforcement team, which enforces Public Space Protection Orders and plays a significant role in stopping anti-social behaviour.

Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex Roger Hirst said: "The success of this bid proves the benefits of working together in partnership to help make our communities and streets safer. We have demonstrated a joint commitment to prevent crime from happening and reducing anti-social behaviour which makes people feel unsafe.

"Primarily this funding will reduce crime by preventing the opportunity for robberies and thefts to take place on the streets. The addition of more CCTV and lighting will not only deter criminal behaviour but will also improve the feeling of safety for everyone in the community, particularly women, who may be feeling vulnerable."

Thurrock Council leader Cllr Rob Gledhill said: "I would like to thank the PFCC for supporting the bid for this funding. It will make a real difference in helping to make Grays High Street safer by enabling us to better light the streets and install modern CCTV equipment.

"This will complement the significant investment we are already seeing in Grays from local businesses and through the government's Towns Fund, which will bring up to £25 million in funding for improvements to Grays. Combined this influx of funding will help us to create a flourishing night-time economy."