A problem hit housing estate will be transformed into a real Big Brother zone with the installation of 64 closed-circuit television cameras.

The most spied upon estate in the country will be monitored at a CCTV control room to counter a range of problems including theft, youth disorder and anti-social behaviour.

Gateshead Council was given the grant to watch over Ravensworth Estate in Dunston, from the Government's CCTV Challenge Initiative last year.

Activity will be monitored not only on the street, but in previously hidden and vulnerable areas, such as lifts, corridors and walkways.

Chief Inspector Ralph Logan of Gateshead West area command welcomed the new security.

He said: "The cameras will provide us with invaluable evidence against offenders, which has been tried and tested in the courts and covers a range of criminal activity."

He said Dunston has been selected because of crime rates, topography and social deprivation.

He said: "Our experience shows that CCTV does have a positive impact on crime and disorder and we have to ensure that the systems are monitored effectively and we do anticipate a reduction in crime.

"While some CCTV is intrusive and people feel slightly overwhelmed, there is a clear guidance and instructions of the safe and proper use of the system will be followed."

The high quality colour cameras will make it easier for wrong-doers to be identified, providing a deterrent. Like the real Big Brother house the system is monitored 24 hours a day, and can, if required, be monitored from police stations.