New CCTV at Brighton beach after sea deaths

Eddie Mitchell A crowded beach with parasols and lots of peopleEddie Mitchell
New cameras have been fitted to watch over Brighton and Hove seafront

New CCTV has been fitted on Brighton and Hove seafront in a bid to make the area safer.

The move follows the deaths in May of three sisters in the sea off Brighton beach. An inquest has opened into their deaths.

The city council operates cameras across the city, including a number on the seafront.

They are monitored by council staff, though Sussex Police has full access.

To go with the existing cameras, the authority has bought more cameras which have been put on the lower promenade.

According to Brighton & Hove City Council the CCTV has "lighting technology" which, it said, could help with searches.

Sussex Police The three sisters, seen as teenagers, and their father sit together at a restaurant table, from left to right, Jane Adetoro, Joseph, Christina Walters and Rebecca Walters.Sussex Police
In May sisters Jane Adetoro, Christina Walters, and Rebecca Walters died in the sea

Existing cameras have been adjusted to produce a comprehensive picture of the area.

This investment in the CCTV network, the authority said, was part of wider council and police plans to improve seafront safety.

Councillor Amanda Grimshaw, the council's community safety member, said: "The extra CCTV and changes to our other cameras will help us keep a clearer eye on activity so we can understand potential issues early and respond more quickly where needed."

CCTV, she added, also deterred anti-social behaviour.

Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram and listen to BBC Radio Sussex on Sounds. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.