THE installation of "spy" cameras in one of Bolton's notorious areas has been welcomed by town centre workers.

Many employees avoid costly town centre parking charges by using peripheral car parks close to Shiffnall Street - where prostitutes reputably ply for trade.

Female town centre workers say they feel particularly vulnerable when returning to their cars after work.

One woman, speaking at Bolton Traders' Committee meeting, said: "The prostitutes can be there from as early as 3pm. "Many women returning to their cars feel threatened.

"I'm sure the introduction of these cameras could ease the problem."

They hope that the introduction of around 14 CCTV cameras on peripheral car parks could help curb the prostitute problem.

Maria Appleton, Bolton's Town Centre Manager, said the cameras were expected to be installed and operational by Christmas.

She said: "Hopefully, lone females returning to these peripheral car parks will feel safer knowing they are being monitored by CCTV." Mrs Appleton added that signs to highlight the use of CCTV cameras would be installed in a bid to deter undesirables.

The cameras will be installed at Bolton Council-owned car parks just outside the town centre such as Breightmet Street.

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