SECURITY cameras could be installed in a city centre park in a bid to counter the threat of terrorism and anti-social behaviour.

York Museums Trust wants to install seven CCTV cameras in the city's Museum Gardens and documents show the increased terror threat is behind the move.

“Due to the heightened threat level from terrorism, York Museums Trust has decided to investigate the possibility of installing external CCTV into various locations within the museum gardens," says a planning report.

A spokesman for the trust said they had made the application after talks with and advice from law enforcement agencies.

He added: “The decision has been made to offer further protection to the public and to our historic buildings and monuments from any anti-social behaviour in the area.”

The cameras would be dotted around the gardens - including the entrance on Museum Street, near the Hospitium, and around the museum building itself.

They would be linked to the city council’s own CCTV control room and the move has been welcomed by police.

Superintendent Lindsey Robson said:“The installation of CCTV will help to deter criminal and anti-social behaviour whilst promoting a feeling of safety and reassurance.”