Credit crunch highlights need for security gates

21/10/2008

Construction firms have been advised to ramp up the use of site security measures - such as wrought iron gates and railings - in an effort to deter thieves.

According to the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA), the recent economic downturn is impelling some criminals to cash in on expensive construction equipment and diesel fuel.

"A number of our member firms have suffered already. The police are taking action, but with fuel prices still high [and] inflation in material costs rife ... we fear the thefts will continue," director of CECA North East Douglas Kell told New Civil Engineer.

In addition to rising fuel costs, raw materials such as copper and scrap metal have also shot up in price in recent months, the website noted.

Elsewhere, the Daily Post has noted that security measures at Wrexham's Eagle Meadow development have been increased after protesters caused two embarrassing perimeter breaches.

Such news may encourage business owners to invest in wrought iron gates and other security measures.