Hi-tech closed-circuit television cameras being installed in Barkerend will extend a 'ring of steel' around Bradford city centre - helping protect it from criminals.

The 14 cameras being put up in the Leeds Road area will be switched on by June.

They will be able to read the registration plates of every vehicle coming into the area.

That means police officers could be alerted about any which are stolen or connected with known offenders.

But the main function of the cameras, which will be the first in the area, is surveillance of local streets to protect residents and businesses.

There are already 100 cameras placed in roads and streets across the city.

They cover the city centre and major corridors.

Areas include the West End, Little Germany, the top of Manchester Road, Little Horton, White Abbey Road and all major car parks.

The new project is being carried out a cost of £500,000 by Regen 2000, the organisation regenerating Barkerend with the help of funds from the Government's Single Regen-eration Budget.

Councillor Jeanette Sund-erland, chairman of the economy, jobs and fighting crime group of Regen 2000, said: "It will complete the ring of cameras around the city and is very important."

The new wireless cameras will be like those used to show a racing driver's view to television audiences.

The 14 cameras have been supplied by Petards Ltd which produces them for Formula One teams.

The contract for their installation has been awarded to Bradford Council.

The wireless cameras will be mobile and can be moved around the area if any trouble or crime is suspected.

Coun Sunderland said: "Local people will benefit tremendously in terms of additional security.

"There is a low level of crime here and some quite serious drug-related incidents."

Board chairman Mohammed Shakeel said: "We want to build confidence and encourage business to the area.

"We hope people will want to work and live here."

The cameras will link into the city's 24-hour CCTV nerve centre along with others across the district.

A Bradford Council spokes-man welcomed the project.

And he added: "It does not necessarily mean they will be the last in the city.

"We will be keeping an eye on this area and the cameras will be a comfort to people.

"If the police require it they will be able to deal with car registration plates."

A police spokesman said: "We are very pleased more CCTV cameras are being installed.

"They are a proven deterrent as well as providing excellent evidence in investigations."