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The money will also be used to increase coverage of the existing CCTV service in Briton Ferry with additions to the existing camera network intended for the Briton Ferry West.

The new locations will utilise the latest high-definition CCTV cameras to help keep residents and visitors to the area safe.

The new system in Pontardawe and the extended CCTV coverage in Briton Ferry will be operated through the council’s recently modernised CCTV control room, where cameras are monitored 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Staff there work closely with other emergency services including police, fire and ambulance staff.

A council spokesperson said: “The Enhanced Community safety provided by the new CCTV service at Pontardawe town centre and extended provision at locations in Briton Ferry West has come from a £71,246 grant from the UK Government via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).”

The spokesperson added: “Providing direct links to South Wales Police and council services, the intention of the new CCTV services is to assist even more in the reduction and detection of anti-social behaviour and general crime, improving local safety and helping to reduce the fear of crime.”

The benefits of professionally monitored CCTV systems for businesses and residents include:

* Crime prevention
* Acting as a deterrent to vandalism and anti-social behaviour
* Supporting Police colleagues through the provision of high-quality camera evidence
* Potential reduction in security costs
* Potential reduction in insurance claims and premiums

Neath Port Talbot Council Deputy Leader, Cllr Alun Llewelyn said: “These new cameras have the primary objective of deterring crime and tackling all forms of anti-social behaviour and they will ultimately make communities feel safer.”