New CCTV cameras make beaches safer

New CCTV cameras have been installed to help make two Porthcawl beaches even safer.

Positioned on Rest Bay and Newton Beach, the two cameras will be monitored remotely by volunteers from the National Coastwatch Institution at their station in the Old Pilot Lookout Tower next to Porthcawl Marina.

They will work closely with RNLI lifeguards to keep a close eye on the sea and the water’s edge to spot anyone in distress. They’ll also report any safety incidents directly to the coastguard and emergency services.

The two cameras have been installed by Bridgend County Borough Council as part of collaborative efforts to make Porthcawl’s coastline as safe as possible.

These new cameras are a very welcome addition. They’ll be extremely useful both during the busy summer season and in the winter when the seas are more treacherous and a close eye needs to be kept on stormy conditions. It will be reassuring for beach goers and sailors to know that an extra pair of eyes will be looking out for their safety while they are in the water.

Councillor Richard Young, the council’s Cabinet Member for Communities

Phil Styles the National Coastwatch Institution station manager for Porthcawl, said: “Ours is one of the busiest NCI stations in the UK for the number of incidents handled, ranging from tidal cut-offs, to wind surfers and swimmers in difficulty, to full Mayday scenarios.

“The new cameras will provide us with eyes along the coastline in areas where we previously had limited or no coverage. Rest Bay in particular is a notable surfing area all year round, and Newton Bay is popular for small boat activity. Serious incidents have occurred in both locations and these cameras, with the support of the local search and rescue teams, will help to make them safer.

“We are extremely grateful to the team at Bridgend County Borough Council along with other local businesses and partners who have come together to make this happen.”