POLICE will spend nearly £1 million in a bid to tackle crime in areas particularly targeted by burglars and thieves.

Sussex Police have secured £892,000 in Government cash for “safer streets” projects in Devonshire in Eastbourne and Lower St Leonards and Warrior Square in Hastings.

The funds will be spent on CCTV, locks and street lighting to deter criminals targeting residents and businesses.

Some of the cash will be made available to remove graffiti and “restore pride” in these areas.

Sussex Police Assistant Chief Constable Jayne Dando said the methods would “design out” crime.

The Argus: Sussex Police say CCTV and street lights are a deterrent for burglarsSussex Police say CCTV and street lights are a deterrent for burglars

“This money will support the work already ongoing by Sussex Police to prevent acquisitive crime in our communities, including measures to help residents make their properties more secure against criminals,” she said.

“The money will also be used for prevention initiatives to design out crime in localities, such as more CCTV and improved street lighting.”

Crime and Policing Minister Kit Malthouse said “simple modifications” such as CCTV and increased street lighting could prevent crime.

“Persistent street crime and burglary have a corrosive effect on a neighbourhood, leaving people apprehensive about leaving their homes, and afraid of what they might encounter when they return,” he said.

“These projects should have a big impact on the communities hardest hit by burglars.”