Plans to combat crime in a coastal town are nearing their final stages.

A CCTV camera will be installed in Southwold, as a deterrent to crime in the town.

Businesses in the town have been targeted in the past few months, including a £100,000 burglary at the Southwold Antiques Centre.

The move has been in planning for the past six months, and was instigated by Southwold Town Council.

It has been supported by Suffolk Police and Crime Commissioner Tim Passmore, Suffolk County and Southwold Town Councillor Michael Ladd and Waveney District Council, all of whom have contributed to the £6,500 project.

The camera will be placed on Mights Bridge, opposite the Millenium Hall.

Daddy Longlegs Shoe Shop was targeted by criminals last year.

Symmon Whiting, manageress of the store, said: “I think it’s a very good idea.In our case we had a description of the vehicle and when it took place and the camera would have shown it.”

Lizzie Wright, manager of the Amber Shop, said: “Obviously I think it would be helpful because it’s the only route in and out of the town.”

Although the camera will be unmanned, it will operate for 24 hours a day, and is set to go live in the next three to four weeks.

Southwold town mayor Simon Tobin said: “We’re delighted with the move. It’s not intrusive as it’s a singular camera but it will act as a deterrent to anyone wishing to conduct crime in Southwold.”

Mr Passmore added: “We’re delighted to give a grant to install CCTV in Southwold.

“There have been issues of crime in the area and we’ve got to recognise that Southwold is a very important part of the Suffolk leisure and tourist area.

“The police do a very good job but this will make their job easier. We thought it was a good use of taxpayers’ money.

“We want to send out a very clear message that we will find the money to sort these people out. We’re not going to tolerate this behaviour.”

Stephen Ardley, deputy leader of Waveney District Council, said: “We are delighted to have provided funding for the CCTV cameras.

“Southwold is a already fantastic and very safe place to live in and visit, however we hope this scheme provides some additional reassurance for residents and visitors.”