01/02/2011

UK Crime Map Website Crashes

Crime maps, just published by the Home Office for England and Wales, has 'crashed' just hours after its official launch.

The new street-by-street guides, costing £300,000 to develop, will allow users to identify where crimes have been committed close to their home within the last month. This includes burglary, anti-social behaviour and violent crime.

The maps are the first of its kind to be released anywhere in the world and also inform people which police officers are responsible for their area.

However this morning, users reported having difficulty accessing the website.

David Moore, Director of Rock Kitchen Harris the firm which developed the maps, said high demand was to blame.

It was reported that between four and five million people were trying to access the site at every hour.

Home Secretary Theresa May said the guides would give residents the information they need to hold their local force to account and help bring down crime.

She said: "I think the public reaction will be positive. I think people are going to welcome the fact they can really see what's happening with crime in their area, not just on their street but in their neighbourhood.

"I think they will feel a greater connection with the police, with much more information about where they can go to, and who they can work with.

"I think that over time it will have an impact on crime. This is about fighting crime together."

(BMcN)

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